Christmas trees provide a number of ecological opportunities. Recycled Christmas trees are used as fish spawning habitats, mulch for public landscaping projects and homeowner use, for boiler fuel, and for lake, river, and beachfront stabilization. “Root ball” Christmas trees can be planted in the yard when the decorations come down and will increase soil stability and air quality. For more information on tree recycling programs, contact local solid waste departments, a Keep Mississippi Beautiful affiliate, or County Extension Service agents.

Other conservation tips for holiday planning include:

●Buying products with the Energy Star logo for energy efficiency.

●Recycling any electronic devices that are being replaced by newer models. Used electronics that are still operating can be given to community groups, local schools, or nonprofit organizations.

●Using post cards for greeting cards which generate less waste and require less energy to manufacture and mail.

●Choosing products that use less packaging material when selecting gifts.

●Using and re-using gift bags instead of wrapping paper to reduce waste.

●Saving boxes, gift bags, and wrapping paper for future use.

●Composting fruit and vegetable trimmings to help Spring gardens.

Simple, common sense steps can provide an inexpensive and enduring gift to natural resources as well as leave more “green” in a checkbook. Executive Director Trudy Fisher and the staff of MDEQ wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe, enjoyable holiday season.