WORTHINGTON -- Going green this holiday season will mean more than just hauling home the traditional pine tree. Environmentally conscious products are more popular than ever, so why not use your holiday shopping to save the planet?
If you're dreaming of a green Christmas, check out these local retailers:
For the eco-conscious chef: The Buffalo Billfold Company offers a variety of kitchen essentials -- cutting boards, plates, platters, bowls and canisters -- all made of bamboo. Bamboo grows five times faster than trees, is 16 times harder than maple and is naturally antimicrobial, according to the packaging.
Also, check out the store's free-trade teas; Maggie Bags (purses made from recycled seatbelts); books on earth-friendly projects; and Goodkind Pen Company pens.
"We have some cool pens that are made from recycled birch and maple and they use soy ink," said owner Bill Keitel. "These are not big and bulky; they're regular pen size."
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For the foodie: Try out Poise 'N' Ivy's all-natural dips and preserves or Wheeler Bread, sold at Schafer's Health Food Center. Indian Lake Berry Farms (southeast of Worthington) begins selling jams, jellies, syrups, soups and pancake mixes the weekend after Thanksgiving.
For the natural beauty: Schafer's Health Food Center carries a line of regionally produced mineral cosmetics called Christina's Natural Qualities; and lotion, soap and laundry soap made from goat's milk.
"People could bring in Christmas tins and fill them with laundry soap," suggested owner Amanda Walljasper.
For a unique gift, try one of the store's most popular gift items: handmade, locally produced mittens made from recycled sweaters.
For the candle lover: Poise 'N' Ivy stocks candles made from 100 percent soy wax that come in yummy scents like Spiced Apple Cider and Snickerdoodle. They are clean burning, lead free and made in America.
Recycled Treasures also sells a few new Christmas candles.
For just about anyone: What's greener than recycling? Consignment stores and thrift shops offer a chance to redecorate your home or revamp your wardrobe while doing just that. And believe it or not, local store managers said people do buy gifts there. Here are a few ideas:
At Closet to Closet in Adrian, children's items are especially popular, and you can also find holiday decorations on the cheap.
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Bibles for Missions offers decorated glass jars and framed photos and artwork that are still in good condition.
At Recycled Treasures, try out the Christmas decorations; clothes, including nice holiday dresses, winter outerwear and Ed Hardy brand shirts; and new bath products.
"They buy a lot of white elephant gifts here, but I get some really nice stuff," said manager Ruth McCready. Most of the stuff here has been used, but it's in really good shape."
