December is a perfect time to explore ways to make homes more eco-friendly and creative ways to make living space more sustainable:

Upcycled Furniture: Keep waste out of landfills using old furniture and other items to create unique, personalized pieces. Find free or inexpensive old furniture at thrift stores, online marketplaces, or even in your own garage. A fresh coat of paint, some new fabric, and a little creativity can transform it into something new!

Microgreen Party: Create an indoor herb garden with in recycled jars, tin cans, or wooden crates. Herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme thrive indoors with minimal effort. Herbs are low-maintenance, easy to grow in small containers, and ideal for any sunny spot.

Holiday Decorations: Besides good old cranberry-and-popcorn strings, challenge the kids to construct centerpieces, ornaments and wreaths with natural materials like acorns, pinecones, twigs, dried flowers, and greenery. Not only will these homemade decorations reduce waste, but they’ll also add a personalized touch to the holidays!

Compost Station: Reduce food waste with a compost station in the kitchen or back yard. Collect organic waste, like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells. Transfer to a compost bin to create nutrient-rich soil for your yard, garden or other plants.

Reinforce windows: During the colder months, windows can be an energy saver. Install thermal curtains. On sunny days, they can be opened to let in radiant heat, then closed to hold the heat inside. Add weatherproofing film and make sure to close storm windows and check for leaks.

Repurpose Clothing: Instead of putting them in the trash, worn towels and t-shirts can become cleaning rags, cloth napkins or other items. Fabric scraps from the closet can become sustainable household items that last longer and reduce environmental impact.

Besides reducing your environmental footprint, these projects are fun! Creating good out of garbage builds the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with home improvement you do yourself.