By: Michelle Bryiel
It’s that time of year again! The weather is cooling, snook season is ending and the holidays are fast approaching. But before you reluctantly put down your rod, park your boat and brave the crowded storefronts, consider adding the environment to your gifting list. Here are some ideas to make your holidays green:
- Shop Local – Whether you’re shopping for new fishing equipment or something nice for your sweetheart, there is a local small business that is bound to have the perfect gift.
- Giving a restaurant gift card? There are local restaurants that also support oyster research through shell recycling. Check out www.floridaocean.org for a list.
- Choose eco-friendly options – So many items, from board shorts to fishing rods, are now made from recycled or sustainable materials. Even fishing companies, like Eagle Claw, are using biodegradable materials to make monofilament line and lures.
- Give gifts that give back – Make a donation to a charity in the recipient’s name. There are even websites, such as www.justgive.org, where you purchase a gift card to allow your recipient to choose the charity to donate the money.
- Shopping online? Use a domain, such as Amazon Smile, that will make a small donation to the charity of your choice.
- Spend time instead of money – If you are creative or handy, you can make your loved one a homemade gift. Have a boat? Offer to take your family member(s) or friend on a fishing excursion.
Now when it comes to wrapping, there are many ways to keep it green while being creative. To cut down on waste and add a bit extra to the present, think outside the box and make the wrapping part of the present. A few examples would be:
- Fishing related items in a bait bucket or cooler with a bow on top
- Fishing rod wrapped in (new) towel or blanket
- Gift card hidden inside of a box of homemade treats
If you want to wrap your presents, use old magazine or calendar pages, paper bags, newspaper or outdated maps. If traditional wrapping is your thing, try to use recycled / recyclable paper or reusable bags. Many of these tips seem simple but can make a difference in the long run for our environment.
Merry Fishmas to all!
Michelle Bryiel is an Education & Exhibits Specialist for the Florida Oceanographic Society. She can be contacted by phone at (772) 225-0505.