OK, so I don’t expect you all to jump onto the freegan bandwagon, but here’s what we do for Christmas in my apartment, and how it does apply to you.

The Rules:

1. No cards.  Not even e-cards.  Isn’t a phone call always better, more personal, and more appreciated?  Make a list and call whenever you have a free moment – sitting on the bus, driving to work, waiting to pick your friend/kid up from practice.  It says “I really do care” not “I know your email address.”
2. No tree.  No driving to the tree lot, watching them saw the tree down, wrapping it in plastic and then driving back home.  No driving to Target, buying a plastic tree and driving home.  We make a tree mural out of shopping bags, and leave a few sharpies around to decorate with.  It’s personal, meaningful, and 100% recycled.  If you miss the pine scent, buy a candle.
3. No presents.  Actually that’s a lie, this is the one time of year we do some actual shopping.  But we don’t play the “present game:” guess what they want, buy it, they pretend its what they want but never use it.  When someone asks you what you want for Christmas, tell them.  It saves everyone time and money.  (There will always be that grandma who still thinks you’re 10, or wear XXL clothes.  Donate unwanted gifts within a week of receiving them, otherwise they just sit around the house forever).
4. No wrapping paper.  There’s something exciting about opening a wrapped gift, and you can achieve that by putting it in a paper bag (we all know you have a billion under your sink) and tying up the top with a nice bow.  You still get to open a present, but you’re not leaving waxy shreds of paper all over the living room.  Or you can do what my grandmother does, open each package extremely carefully, save the paper for a year and then re-use it.
5. No thank you cards. See Rule #1.
6. No Holiday Hams.  We’re all vegetarian anyway, but the idea is to stop fussing about “traditional holiday food” and start fussing about local, fresh and in season food.  Whoever decided that we had to all eat ham, stuffing and green beans (not that I don’t love green beans) obviously never lived anywhere where avocados are in season that time of year.  The idea is a dinner with people you love, not a dinner dictated by people hundreds of years ago.
7. No stress.  It’s the holidays.  Those two sentences are never found together, but they should be.  You’ve heard this from every silly holiday advice page ever, but really.  Think about this: what is the worst thing that could happen if you call someone rather than send a card, or make a tree from items in your home?  Relax and remember, this holiday comes every year, if you mess it up this time you’ll get another chance in about 365 days (which in the grand scheme of things isn’t long at all).

(Photo credit, above:  freegan.info)

This post is contributed by guest blogger, Ana Nunez on behalf of Metabolife, who believes as we do, that “Less is More.”

‘Tis almost the season for over indulgence, but with the current state of the economy, calories won’t be the only thing we’re all counting this holiday season…

Celebrate “Less is More” this holiday season with a few easy tips that cover all the bases from food to gift wrapping that will stretch your dollar without sacrificing your holiday fun:

• Give Green: Americans spend $2.7 billion every year on gift wrapping.  Using clever holiday gift wrapping can save bundles around the holidays.  Try wrapping a gift inside of a gift, such as a reusable shopping bag.
• Go on an Energy Diet:  Changing small habits can save you money. This winter, try to keep your blinds open on sunny days in order to let in the sun and heat. Did you know that according to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save over $40 per year just by turning your thermostat down by 1 degree?  This will give everyone in the family a great reason to wear that holiday sweater instead of turning up the heat.
• Decorate Green:  Homemade is back.  Get creative and save money by making your own decorations from earth friendly materials instead of buying artificial ones that cost money and won’t biodegrade. For example, make a homemade wreath with branches in your yard or nearby park.
• Give Homemade:  Something thoughtful like a decorated jar with homemade cookies or an album of old pictures so often means more than store bought.  Save money and get into the holiday spirit.
• Treat Leftovers as Lunch:  Big meals around holiday time make for great lunches the next day. Skip eating out and save money by packing leftovers in reusable containers.

These are just a few great ways to celebrate “Less is More” this holiday season.

Metabolife knows that is it is often the accumulation of small changes that delivers lasting results. Weight loss is just one area of life where this is true. We created “Less is More” to bring this all to life, to help people realize the real impact that comes from taking even the smallest action in the right direction in any area of life that matters to them.  Check out the site: www.joinlessismore.com to share your ideas about “Less is More.”

(editorial note:  The Alternative Consumer has not tried Metabolife, but supports the concept of “less is more.”)

We had the privilege of receiving a Terra Composter from Algreen for the purpose of reviewing it for The Alternative Consumer.  The terra composter is as nice looking as the photos, just like the elegant rain barrel I previously wrote about.  It’s a 45 gallon container that comes with a lid and a nifty shovel that my husband thinks is similar to those in an army surplus store due to the fact that it is all metal and conveniently folds up to fit in a little pack.  The shovel is a little tricky to get it unfolded and securely opened, as it must be twisted just right, but we loved having it to use. (more…)

In a radical departure, rather than visit our local tree farm to hack down a seven foot Scotch Pine, this year we’re taking a much more minimal approach and opting for a reusable tabletop tree.  The time we save will probably be devoted to mixing some new tunes and trying some new drinks.  So here’s the roundup; wondering which will look best on the all important cocktail table?

(above) A natural alternative to a live or artificial Christmas tree, this 2-foot birch is designed by an architect and made in Minnesota, ($160) @ possibiliTree.com.

(above) This Iron Wire Tree with chrome finish measures 16″ wide x 3″ deep x 16.75″ high and is ready to hang out with mini ornaments, ($24.95) @ crate&barrel

(upper left) Designer Robert Sabuda’s Pop up Table Holiday Tree unfolds for all the festivities then refolds for easy storing or passing along to a friend.  ($21.95 @ moma.org)

(upper right) One of a kind, needle felted and handmade (by a tree lover), Christmas Tree with Fine Feathered Friend ($30) @ etsy.com

(photo credit above, MacKenzie-Childs) Taking over-the-top decadence to new heights is the Grand Shard Tree which stands nine feet tall at Mackenzie-Childs on West 57th Street and goes for 50,000 bucks.  Hand made of ceramic and pottery “shards,” it’s topped with a teapot finial.  There’s also a tabletop version available for a mere ($750). Needless to say, neither of these is my cup of tea.

(above) Designed by David Stark for West Elm, these Natural Weave Trees are made of lupis twine and range from $19-$79, depending on size.  They caught my eye the other day when I was in their shop across from Lincoln Center.

This reusable tree pictured above may be my favorite.  Created by Lovi, it’s made in Finland from sustainably harvested FSC-certified birch wood, and it comes with good karma – the manufacturer plants one new tree for each small tree sold. (66 EUR) @ matteriashop.com

If I start pining for real pine, I’ll just take a nice long walk in the woods…and maybe bring along a saw.

What are your plans?  Feel free to send us a snap of your Christmas tree, and we’ll show it off.

Here’s an innovative, eco-friendly way to protect your prized iPhone or similar gadget.  This durable pouch, made out of recycled or natural cork, is a handsome alternative to the ubiquitous plastic, vinyl or leather carrying case.  One drawback – you have to preorder – it won’t be in stock ’til the second week of December.

14.00eur @ matteriashop.com

• Is the Asian water supply in danger?  (video) Melting Everest Glacier Worries Scientists – msnbc
• The fight against global warming takes many forms…Scientists Aim to Curb Burping Sheep – ananova
• Setting the tone for Copenhagen? Australia’s Carbon Trading Legislation Fails - yahoo! news
• Swedish Police Suspect Moose Killed Woman - aol news
• I have a size 10 carbon footprint but only size 6 water…Will Water Footprints be the Next Energy Star? – natgeo
• A Closer Look at the Hudson Canyon Shows Why the Canyon is Critical for Fish – sciencedaily
• Food or gasoline?  The mighty corn lobby says ‘let them eat gas’. U.S. Ethanol Industry Set to Win Battle of the Blends – reuters

Robotikits 6-in-1 solar kit is an amazing way to educate children (and adults!) on how solar power works.  It’s also great brain stimulation for the mechanically minded.  This kit comes with plastic pieces that make a solar airboat, windmill, puppy, car, plane and revolving plane.  The age recommendation is 10+, but bright children who are younger will be able to do at least some of the building on their own or at least the attempt may bring them a sense of accomplishment and independence.

The model pieces snap together easily and the directions are straightforward.  The motor was made from a simple gear and the solar panel was pretty sturdy compared to the other plastic pieces.  Each model worked fine as long as the wires were attached correctly.  My husband thought that the wires should have had little handles on the end, similar to those on jumper cables, so they were easier to handle and stayed in place better.  It’s just that the wires were easily displaced, which was done many times at our house with all the little fingers eager to see how each model worked.  It was hard for us as well since the pieces are so small and thin wires had to be pushed into a small crack in the side of the gear box.

But all in all we were pleased with the results, the experience and education that it provided our whole family.  An additional plus is that the kit is totally reusable and may be re-assembled into its different variations many times over, if none of the parts get lost!

The kit retails for $21.99 and may be purchased @ anpawi.com

First day of December, and I’m ready to get my head around the holidays.  Time to take a deep breath and dive in.  My biggest challenge always seems to be maintaining balance — finding simple ways to do it all (celebrate with friends and family, decorate, give back, spread some joy, and feel the true spirit of the season).

This year we’re going low impact.  Here are some ways that we plan to go about curbing our carbon footprint.  As time goes on, we may update this list.  As always, feel free to jump in with any other suggestions.  Your thoughts are always appreciated.

• I love to send Christmas cards, but there’s a lot of “waste” involved.  For the past couple of years I’ve sent Jacquie Lawson holiday e-cards, (photo credit, above).  She always has a lovely selection of beautifully rendered animations.  By emailing greetings, there’s no need to purchase stamps, or use paper and energy (gasoline and transportation) in order to have traditional paper cards created and physically transported around the planet.  Bonus – for a small yearly fee, ($12/1 year or $18/2 years), you can send ecards year round – birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

• When setting the table or entertaining, bring out the real thing.  Kick things up a notch by using China, glassware, silverware, cloth napkins and table coverings to make everyone feel like your gathering really is a special occasion.  Ask family to help set up and clean up, or hire additional hands to help make it all happen.  Using the good stuff requires extra time and special attention so reach out for help, don’t take on the additional stress by doing all yourself.

• Keep the decorating simple and “live” if possible.  Gather pine cones, evergreen boughs, branches, stones and fashion your own wreaths, garland and centerpieces.  I’ve been doing this for the past several years and I always surprise myself by how easy it is, and how beautiful it is to bring natural elements from outside into my home.   If your creations are cool enough, you can even give them as gifts. My sister gathered pine cones and made beautiful pine wreaths that we’ve been reusing for the past few years.
• Gifts don’t always have to be a new off the shelf item, bought in a big box and then wrapped in glossy paper tied with a big bow.  Rather than toss a preloved item — digital camera or old iPod, jewelry or decorative item — give it as a gift to someone who can actually use it.
• If you do need to go shopping, get organized.  Plan ahead to allow for the most efficient way to get from Point A to Point B.  This will cut down on the amount of gas you use and save time as well.  Shop locally as much as possible, and carpool to make your trips to the store not only more energy efficient but also more fun.
• If you grow your own herbs, salad and veggies, use them – whether fresh or dried.  Dried lavender makes the most wonderful sachets.  I’ve wrapped dried herbs in vintage handkerchiefs and tucked them into stockings.  They’re sweet little surprises.  I’ve also left them on their stems and used the lavender as an accent on a fresh evergreen wreaths. (photo credit:  zJayne’s etsy shop)
• If you opt for the live Christmas tree, be sure to recycle it — create mulch, or give it an afterlife in a pond or lake – the fish and aquatic life love it.  We’ve done this for the past several years, (at right), it warms my heart and strokes my soul.
• Overall, be mindful of the 3 R’s:  reduce, reuse, recycle and don’t be afraid to re-think.  Like rules, some traditions are meant to be broken.  Here’s to a happy December, and low carbon impact holiday season!

Yes global warming is a reality…yes we need to save the polar bears and yes we need cute organic cotton tee shirts emblazoned with anime polar bears and Japanese text…

$24 @ spicybrown.com