Christmas doesn’t have to be a burden on the planet. With a little effort and imagination, we can reduce the environmental influence of the holiday season. Here are some ideas to help celebrate the season while caring for the earth.

1. Buy less. Some holiday gifts fill a practical need and need to be bought new. But many gifts are really gestures of thoughtfulness. 【小题1】.

2. Not all gifts have to be store-bought. You can give more while spending less by giving gifts that are personal and unique. 【小题2】, most adults appreciate anything that shows thoughtfulness.

3. 【小题3】. Many gifts in today’s marketplace come from halfway around the world, and the influence of transportation contributes significantly to greenhouse emissions（排放）and global warming. Local craft fairs and artisan shops are good places for gifts that come without the added costs of transportation. And gifts made locally often have a story which goes with the gift, since the artisan and the origin of the gift are known.

4. Choose gifts made from recycled things. 【小题4】. Supporting these businesses helps reduce the waste stream while promoting the concept of making best use of available materials.

5. Give “Battery-Free” gifts. According to the ЕPA, about 40% of all battery sales occur during the holiday season. Thrown batteries are harmful to environment. Even rechargeable batteries find their way into the waste stream eventually.

6. Avoid children’s toys that promote violence. There is too much violence in the world, and the new wave of video games for children is disturbing. 【小题5】. There are many toys and games hat are fun, and give children’s creativity and sense of active play.