5 Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift Ideas In Orange County

Dive into the holidays and change your environmental footprint to a tip-toe, at least that is what Captain Dave's Whale Watching tours is suggesting. What are ways you can lessen your impact on the environment? It's easier than you think.

1. Shop Local - Did you know that by visiting your local stores rather than ordering online you are making an impact on the environment? Rather than ordering from far off places and engaging in international commerce, visit a mom and pop shop, farmer's market, or support a local artisan and give a gift that means a little more to all. Take a visit to your downtown, old town or main street and duck into a store you've never visited before. Chances are you'll find some interesting, unique item that would be perfect under your tree!
2. Give the Gift of an Experience - Grandparents, aunts, and uncles! Stuck on what to get your grandchild, niece or nephew? A trinket or token ends up on the shelf. Instead, consider giving tickets to the movies, purchasing an annual membership to the Santa Ana Zoo, Pretend City Children's Museum, or gift cards for a whale watching tour! Whatever the experience you choose, you are sharing the gift that keeps on giving.
3. Skip the Wrapping Paper - Who knew that wrapping paper was part of the problem with environmental waste? Be smart when it comes to wrapping. Those shiny papers are not recyclable, Captain Day says, and end up in landfills. Consider wrapping in recycled paper, instead! You can get a roll of brown craft paper and decorate it yourself, or skip it all together.
4. Give the Gift of Learning - Consider giving your loved one a class in the fine art of cooking, painting, ceramics or drawing. Want to go big? sign up for classes surfing or scuba diving certification to engage the mind and heart of your loved one. "It's good for the mind, body and soul," Tracie of Captain Dave's Whale Watching said.
5. Give the Gift of Giving - Does your someone special or family member have a favorite charity? Nonprofit giving is always appreciated, and there are no shortage of charities out there who would appreciate your support over the holidays and beyond! Most charitable organizations have a Donate link on their website. Consider supporting the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, the Friendship Shelter, Laura's House, or Chrysalis Orange County.

Whatever you decide to do, spend time with your loved ones this holiday. Put those phones away, except for taking pictures of the memories you are making! the most priceless gift of all is the present of your presence.

Happy holidays!

Photo: Courtesy Patch Staffer Elizabeth Janney