Dreaming of a 'green' Christmas

Christmas lights are being hung, "Santa Baby" is taking over the radio stations, and kids everywhere are making their Christmas lists and checking them twice.

The season is just around the corner and the last thing on anyone's mind is "going green." It's no doubt that the only way global warming is going to decrease is by the people. Everyone seems to agree about the growing problem, but no one seems to do anything about it.

People need to stop listening and start doing. Lights need to be switched off when a person leaves the room, water shut off while it's not being used, and metal water bottles need to replace plastic. These tasks are so simple, so small, but houses that are driven by daily have every light filling their windows.

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to start making a difference. This Christmas Web sites are filling up with creative eco-friendly gifts, gifts that anyone in the family can enjoy. All kids want the latest trends, and more and more stores are adding eco-friendly pieces to their collections. Bags are being made out of recycled jute grain, and there are now paperless notepads.

We deserve blame for the constantly changing weather, but we are also what is going to put an end to it. This year, fill up stockings with eco-friendly makeup, jewelry, and clothes; kids aren't going to even notice the difference.

Jessica Niemann

Glen Ellyn