Here’s How to Make Your Outdoor Holiday Lighting and Decor More Sustainable

There’s nothing quite like the glow and twinkle of holiday lights and decorations to create a sense of magic, warmth, and wonder this time of year. But this season, why not give your outdoor decor more of a sustainable sparkle? You don’t have to sacrifice holiday magic to make an eco-conscious impact either. With a little creativity, you can create a glowing, eco-conscious wonderland right outside your door. From solar-powered string lights that harness the sun’s energy to DIY decor made from recycled materials, there are plenty of fun and simple ways to keep your holiday spirit high while reducing your environmental footprint. Here’s to exploring how small, mindful choices can help make your home merry, bright, and even a bit greener this season!

Thomas J. Story

Energy-Efficient Outdoor Lighting

LED Lights

Upgrade your holiday display with LED lights, which use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer than traditional bulbs. These eco-friendly options come in a variety of styles, from warm white to color-changing strands, ensuring a festive vibe without the environmental cost. Durable and safer than incandescents, LEDs are a smart investment for seasons to come.

Courtesy of Amazon

Solar-Powered String Lights

Soak up the Western sun with solar-powered string lights, which charge by day and shine brightly by night. These wireless, energy-efficient lights are perfect for pathways, garden beds, or patio railings, adding a romantic glow without impacting your energy bill. Easy to install and weather-resistant, they’re a glowing example of green holiday décor.

Courtesy of Amazon

Timer Systems

Programmable timers are an easy way to ensure your holiday lights shine only when needed, saving energy and effort. Set lights to turn on at dusk and off by bedtime, or use staggered timers to create dynamic displays. For even more convenience, smart plugs let you control everything remotely via an app or voice command. From simple setups to synchronized spectacles, timers make it easier than ever to go green.

Courtesy of Home Depot

Reflective Surfaces

Maximize your holiday lights with reflective surfaces like mirrors, metallic ornaments, and polished garlands that amplify their shine. Strategically place mirrors in your garden or add metallic elements around lights to create a dazzling, multidimensional display. Reflective decor not only boosts the brightness but also reduces the need for additional bulbs, making it a clever way to save energy while enhancing your holiday ambiance.

Thomas J. Story

Recycled and Low-Waste Holiday Decorations 

Upcycled Tin Can Lanterns

Transform empty tin cans into charming lanterns with just a few supplies and a little creativity. Punch festive patterns or designs into the sides of clean cans, then add LED tea lights for a safe, eco-friendly glow. Hang them along pathways, from tree branches, or place them on steps for a warm, welcoming touch.

Repurposed Fabric Bows and Garlands

Breathe new life into old clothes or fabric scraps by turning them into festive bows and garlands. Cut fabric into strips to create rustic braided garlands or tie vibrant bows to adorn trees, wreaths, or railings. These handmade accents are not only low-waste but also full of character, adding a cozy, personal touch to your holiday decor. 

Cardboard Ornaments

Give leftover cardboard packaging a creative second life by crafting homemade ornaments. Cut shapes like stars, snowflakes, or trees, then paint or decorate them with glitter and ribbon for a seasonal flair. Lightweight and customizable, these ornaments are perfect for kids’ crafts or adding a rustic touch to your tree.

Thomas J. Story

Pinecone, Seed Pod, and Branch Arrangements

Collect fallen pine cones, dried seed pods and branches during a winter walk to create rustic outdoor arrangements. Place them in pots, baskets, or vases, and accent with LED string lights or metallic paint for a festive twist. Bonus, they’re free and compostable once the season ends.

Living Wreaths

Create living wreaths with succulents, drought-tolerant natives, or herbs for an eco-friendly holiday decoration that lasts beyond the season and can be replanted in your garden in the new year. Attach plants to a moss-covered wreath base or weave them into a grapevine frame, and mist lightly to keep them fresh. For potted plants, such as native shrubs or grasses, try a kokedama approach where soil root balls are wrapped with moss and watered once dried out.

Thomas J. Story

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Rethinking Plastic Inflatables

Swap out energy-hogging plastic inflatables for timeless alternatives like wooden cutouts or fabric banners. Support local artisans by purchasing handcrafted pieces, or DIY your own wooden yard art for a personal touch. 

Renting or Sharing Decorations

Cut down on clutter and waste by renting holiday decorations or participating in neighborhood sharing groups. Look for holiday decor rental services offering everything from wreaths to statement lighting for special events. Or organize a decoration swap with neighbors to refresh your display without buying new items. 

Biodegradable Decorations

Opt for biodegradable holiday decorations that leave no lasting footprint. Choose paper snowflakes, ornaments crafted from corn husks, or accents made with biodegradable glitter for an eco-friendly sparkle. These options are festive and earth-conscious, breaking down naturally once the season ends.

Supporting Local Artisans

Elevate your holiday decor by purchasing handmade, sustainably crafted items from local businesses. From fabric banners to ceramic ornaments, locally sourced decorations add a personal, meaningful touch to your celebrations. Supporting small artisans not only reduces shipping-related emissions but also invests in your community. It’s a win-win for style and sustainability.

Certifications to Look for

When shopping for holiday items, look for eco-labels to ensure sustainability. Energy Star-certified lights guarantee energy efficiency, while FSC-certified wood ensures responsible sourcing for wooden decorations. These certifications make it easy to identify products that align with your eco-friendly goals. A little label-checking goes a long way toward creating a holiday display that’s both beautiful and planet-friendly.

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