We all love getting things in the mail and at Christmas, those beautiful greeting cards are no exception. Unfortunately the carbon footprint of your kind festive thoughts is pretty overwhelming and there are some awesome alternatives to the traditional holiday greeting card that can make for a merry and eco-friendly festive season.
Donate a tree
Just think of all the trees that will have to get the chop so that we can spread some festive cheer this year. Instead, donate a tree to a reforestation plan for each family, friend or colleague you would have sent a card to. That way they will know that deep in the Amazon jungle, cute little critters have a home thanks to them.
Charitable donations
If donating a tree is going out on a limb, you can opt to donate holiday meals or gifts to families in need instead of sending cards. Make a donation and help families in need and let your erstwhile holiday card recipient know that you made a donation in their name.
You can go to Don’t Send me a Card to select the charity of your choice.
Try Holiday Helpers for families in Canada.
Help veterans and their families with Fill Circle Homes or Operation Christmas Spirit.
Make a video
If you want something really fun, but find ecards a little impersonal, then opt for the DIY video instead. Make each family member, friend or colleague a quick video that conveys your sincere holiday greetings and features your family, pets or office buddies.
You can make your own video at Animoto or get a bunch of free Christmas cards and videos that you can customize.
Donate a toy
Instead of sending a festive greeting card, let your card recipient play Santa by donating a toy to a kid in need. You can support the Canadian Salvation Army toy drive here or donate to the US Marine Toys for Tots program in their name.
Caroling is Caring
Record your family or friends singing your new favorite holiday tune or, if you can’t sing a note, try for a recorded message or poem which will make your holiday email so much more personal.