Here are some easy ways to have a green Christmas this year, and they are easier and greener than crafting a giant Frosty the Snowman out of 2 liter PET bottles!

1. Buy a tree with roots this year. Come January you can plant it in your garden, thereby helping the environment.

2. Instead of sending cards send a festive e-card.

3. Make gifts this year. Whether it is chutney, chocolates or knitwear, making a gift can be fun and also saves you money.

4. Did you save last year’s cards? If not, save this year’s – cut out the pictures and re-use for gift tags next year.

5. After the holidays, mulch your tree instead of putting it out for the trash. Go to this link , put in your zip code, and find out where you can take your tree to be mulched. http://www.christmastree.org/recycle_program.cfm

6. When wrapping your gifts this year buy recycled wrapping paper or wrap with brown paper dressed with a funky ribbon for something different.

7. Buy charity gifts online – whether it’s adopting an animal or buying an acre of rain forest – a true gift that keeps on giving long after the seasons passed.

8. Need new decorations? Why not bake seasonal cookies to go on the tree, icing on names for that extra touch. Plus you’ve got a treat to enjoy over the holiday period.

9. Reduce your household energy consumption – put your festive tree lights on a timer for a warm and timely welcome when you get home.

Or make a gigantic red Christmas tree from recycled plastic bottles, the choice is yours!