Your choices matter. Read that again. 

Every decision that you make, from the bags you use at the store, to the food you throw in the trash, to the amount of time you take in the shower, has an impact on the environment. At Kaia Earth, our mission is to protect the world around us and educate others on how to do the same.

The holidays are coming, it’s a stressful time of year, so make it easier on yourself by simplifying your life in a sustainable way. It may seem difficult to change your ways, but small changes can have a big impact on your overall health and the health of our planet.

Here are some tips for getting started on living sustainably this holiday season.

• Reduce your food waste: The holidays are full of delicious meals and sweet treats, and there are bound to be leftovers. Instead of tossing food in the trash, throw it in the freezer! It’ll save you time down the road when you’re low on groceries and need to make dinner.
• Make lists: This goes for food shopping and gift shopping. Rather than spend frivolously and grab whatever you see, you’ll shop purposefully with a list in hand. 
• Shop locally: Again, this goes for both shopping for food/drink and holiday shopping. Support local businesses and put money back into your local economy. Consider getting your spirits locally from area wineries or breweries. Furthermore, shopping for locally grown produce is a great way to support area farmers and spread holiday cheer during the season. 
• Change your gift giving: Rather than giving people “things” to clutter their house, consider giving experiences or crafting homemade presents, such as an ornament or a home cooked meal. 
• Stop using store-bought wrapping paper: Get creative with your wrapping this year! You can use old maps, newspapers, or other recycled materials for a sustainable method of gift wrapping. 
• Recycle!: Don’t throw your cans in the garbage, put them in the recycling bin. It’s easy to get caught up in the hectic nature of the holidays, but taking an extra moment to separate your recyclables has a big impact on the environment. 
• Ditch the elaborate decorations: Decking the halls is a critical part of the holidays for many people, but there are ways to be more eco-friendly. Try using solar-powered lights outside instead of electrically-powered lights. Inside, use LED lights. LEDs are not only safer, but they can be up to 80% more energy efficient. Plus, there are now Christmas trees on the market with LED lights. 

Give the planet a gift this holiday season--making more eco-friendly choices.