Happy Holidays RYSERS! Deck the halls with eco-cheer! The holidays are here and it’s time to sleigh the season in the most sustainable way! Here are some great ideas for enjoying the holidays while giving Mamma Earth the gift of a healthier life.

Mindful Shopping

Support local businesses and artisans to reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping. Choose products with minimal packaging, and when possible, go for items made from sustainable materials.

Tree Alternatives

If you celebrate with a Christmas tree, consider an artificial tree that can be reused for several years. If you prefer a real tree, look for options that are sustainably grown and consider recycling it when the season is over.

Gifts from the Heart

Give the gift of experiences, homemade treats, or DIY crafts. This reduces the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and packaging. Plus, it adds a personal touch that's far more meaningful than a store-bought item.

Eco-friendly Wrapping

Opt for reusable gift wrapping options like fabric, scarves, or even old maps. If you prefer traditional paper, look for recycled or recyclable options. Consider making your own wrapping paper using newspaper, magazines, or plain brown paper and add a personal touch with reusable ribbon or twine.

Post-Holiday Recycling

When the festivities are over, make sure to recycle your tree, wrapping paper, and any recyclable materials. Donate or repurpose decorations and items you no longer need instead of throwing them away.

And when it comes time to tip the people in your lives who work hard all year, here are some guidelines. Keep in mind the more frequent you utilize their service, the higher end of the guide you may want to go. For example, if you have an electric car that needs to be charged requiring garage staff to move cars and charge for you, you may want to veer to the higher end.

• Doorman/Concierge/Super $75-$200

• Porter/Handyman/Maintenance $25-50

• Parking Garage Attendant $25-75

• Nanny $1-2 Weeks of pay

• Babysitter An evening’s pay

• Dog Walker Up to one week’s pay

• Pet Groomer Up to the cost of one session

• Hairstylist/Colorist: Cost of one session

• Manicurist: $25-$50

• Teacher: Gift card up to $25 or small gift

• Coaches, Tutors, Music Teachers: Small figs from your child

• Massage Therapist: Up to the cost of one session

• Mail Carrier: Cannot accept cash but small gift or gift card up to $20

• Personal Trainer: Up to the cost of one session

• Housekeeper: Up to the cost of one visit or one-two week’s pay if full time

Remember, kindness and thoughtfulness go a long way. If you can give a gift from the heart, it’s the most loving and sustainable impact.

Happy Holidays from all of us here at RYSIT!