What to Look For | Holiday Tips | Gift Ideas

Americans spent an average of $734 for holiday shopping in 2003. That's a lot. There is no requirement that we spend that much, or that we spend it frivolously. Holiday spending can be geared toward products that help protect the environment and support other good causes. Here are a few tips:

• Green Labels: Whenever possible, look for labels that let you know the product is certified as environmentally friendly. To get smart on what labels mean, visit the Consumers Union Eco-labels Web site.
• Locally Produced: In general, buying local products supports your local economy and reduces energy costs because the products don't have to be shipped from far away places.
• Energy Efficient: Buy products that use less energy. Look for the Energy Star or Green Seal labels. Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants.
• Organic: Organic foods and clothing are produced without lots of harmful chemicals such as synthetic pesticides and herbicides.
• Recycled Content: Look for recycled products and those items that contain high percentages of recycled content, such as paper that contains the highest percentage of post-consumer waste.
• Fair Trade: Many companies are committed to providing fair wages and good working conditions for their employees. The Fair Trade label ensures that the companies practice socially responsible management.
• Used: You can find great deals and nice things at thrift shops, used book stores, and music stores that carry used CDs.

Read our holiday tips for having fun and reducing waste over the holiday season.
Learn about some creative gift ideas or suggest some of your own.
See how you can use your spending power.