Around the holidays, it is especially important to remain conscientious of the environment, as they can be the source of a great deal of consumption and waste.  This Thanksgiving, keep the following tips in mind for a more environmentally friendly celebration.

As always, make an effort to find local and organic food for your Thanksgiving meal.  Visit your local farmer’s market for produce, and fill in the other necessities from the grocery store.  If possible, look for a locally raised turkey, or opt for a turkey-free meal.  Check this website for local, naturally raised turkey.

When setting the table for Thanksgiving, only include reusable items, like cloth napkins and metal silverware to reduce unnecessary waste.  Also be careful to recycle all of the cans, boxes and other food containers that can often get tossed in the trash during meal preparation.  To further decrease waste, refrain from purchasing decorations.  Either choose a few quality items that will last for years, or decorate with natural items, such as fallen pine cones and fall leaves.

Try to avoid travel during the holidays as much as possible.  Make the holiday a celebration for local family, or invite neighbors in the spirit of the original Thanksgiving.  Driving and flying are major contributors to pollution and greenhouse gases, and these effects only increase during the holidays.

Finally, try starting a new Thanksgiving tradition that directly benefits the environment.  You and your family can plant a tree every year to help curb the effects of pollution.  Alternatively, you can donate to an environmental charity of your choosing.