Fight Climate Change

Porthcawl in South Wales have made a huge step in fighting climate change by introducing solar power festive trees (The BBC). The trees, which use LED lights and a solar panel replace the town’s annual christmas lights and whilst they perhaps may not be as festive and bright, it’s a good to see that at least one council is taking appropriate steps. However, what can you do to be eco friendly with your christmas lights this year?

Already we’ve seen houses lit up like, well, christmas trees – and these will be on from now until 12th night, every night. In a time when we’re meant to be conserving energy it’d be interesting to know just how much carbon is generated by a street full of outdoor lights. However, you can do your small part and reduce your own carbon footprint by using solar power christmas lights or eco friendly lights.

Solar Powered Christmas Lights from Nigel’s Eco Store are a good option. They’re especially designed to cope with the British Climate and when fully charged they will shine for up to 3 days. They’re available in red or yellow lights.

There are also Solar Powered lights available from Ethical Superstore. These are a set of 45 flickering star LED lights that are charged via a solar panel. When fully charged, the lights will provide up to six hours of light.

If solar power isn’t for you (and the rope lights are limited in excitement) then make sure you’re buying LED christmas lights as these use a lot less energy than the bigger bulb lights. You can find a great selection at Christmas Wrapped Up.

Aside from solar powered lights and eco friendly christmas decorations, if you really want to be greener this Christmas then simply just remember to switch off the lights when you’re not at home – and perhaps just turn then off an hour earlier than usual each day. Not only will it cut down on your bills, you are helping conserve energy.