This article is provided courtesy of Arlene Baxter, Chair of the Climate Action Committee at Oakland Berkeley Association of Realtors.
This holiday season will be different from other years as we are still in a transition period: the pandemic continues to provide an opportunity for all of us to actively refocus on what is truly meaningful in our lives, and at no time will the opportunity for reflection be greater than during the holidays.
We encourage you to keep the planet in mind, as well as the health of future generations as you make choices this season. We have a wonderful opportunity to redefine how we celebrate and consider what is truly important. Here are some actionable tips for celebrating sustainably:
Focus on Appreciation
As we celebrate various holidays, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we all could focus on what really matters: being part of a community and giving thanks for the friends, family members and community members who make our lives special.
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Give of yourself: Make a call to someone with whom you have not been in touch for some time. If you’ve already been through your contact list once since the pandemic began, maybe it’s time for a second pass. The words “thank you” or “I’ve missed seeing you” can be a valuable gift to someone!
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Buy Local: Check your local crafts fairs, open studios, and farmers’ markets for gift ideas, such as herb-flavored hand-pressed olive oils, specialty chocolates, soaps, monthly vegetable box subscriptions, handmade clothes, jewelry, pottery, or photography. This supports local farmers and craftsmen and keeps your “investment” within your community. And how special to meet the person who created the gifts you give!
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Give Consumables: Choose edible or reusable items as great low-waste options; items from your own garden or kitchen are especially meaningful and appreciated. Edible items are appreciated no matter how much “stuff” people have! A local specialty combines consumables and supports the local economy.
Buy Fewer Things as Gifts and Focus on Experiences
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Give a membership to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium. Some are outdoor experiences and all will have updated safety protocols. The Museum of California is a real treasure with a great store that has local gifts.
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Give gift cards to local businesses. This helps some of our favorite businesses stay afloat and your friends will enjoy excellent local items. Or choose your local bookstores like Pegasus, Mrs. Dalloways, or Walden Pond Books. Many independent stores have closed in the past few years, so consider supporting those that have survived!
Support Local Community Services with Donations
There are many worthy causes that need help. Consider making a donation, or make it in the name of someone you wish to honor. Whether you wish to support local artisans or donate to food banks, or help the homeless, your donations will be greatly appreciated. You can also help make sure local animals are taken care of by donating to shelters. Through the end of the year, you can even adopt an animal at the Oakland Zoo! When you do buy physical gifts, consider these tips:
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Give environmentally-friendly gifts that also make a statement such as plastic alternatives: bamboo aand toothpaste tablets, shampoo in bar form, canvas bags, stainless steel travel mugs or water bottles, or garden tools. All of these items and more can be purchased from the local Ecology Center store. And you can refill items at FillGood.co on Solano Avenue. Your gifts can be thoughtful and also carry an important message.Photo credit: FillGood.co
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Wrap your gifts by recycling: use old maps, comic pages, or reusable gift bags or baskets. Use reusable ribbons and bows, or decorate them with herbs, pinecones, holly, or other natural materials.
No matter how you celebrate the holidays, we wish you all a season filled with joy, good health, and the love of family and friends.
