I just returned from the World Climate Summit in Madrid, which brought together key leaders from around the globe to discuss solutions and define an action plan to fight climate change. During the event, I was proud to share how Itron is contributing to decarbonization and the transformation of the energy sector with our data-driven, smart grid and smart city solutions.

Upon my return, I was met with the holiday season in full swing. Unfortunately, this season can generate enormous amounts of waste and pollution. We all have a part to play in creating a more resourceful world, and with a few simple changes, you can reduce waste this holiday season.

1. Use LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. During the holidays, Americans burn 6.63 billion kilowatt-hours to power holiday lights, which is more electricity than many developing countries use in a year. Fortunately, you can save money and energy with LED holiday lights, which consume up to 75% less energy than conventional lights according to the EPA. It is also possible to also add a timer to control your lights and turn them off once everybody is sound asleep – reducing a few extra hours of burning lights.
2. Use plastic-free wrapping materials. Although the word “paper” is in the name, most wrapping paper is lined with plastic. Instead of buying and eventually throwing away wrapping paper this year, use alternatives that you can recycle or reuse such as cloth bags, paper grocery bags and old newspapers.
3. Go paperless for your holiday cards. Most holiday cards find their way to the trashcan after their short stint on the refrigerator. Instead of sending out paper cards, opt for an e-card or online slide show of photos from the year.
4. Shop local. With online shopping, it’s easy to purchase all of your holiday gifts from the comfort of your own home, but shipping pumps large quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, not to mention the extra cardboard used for all the shipping boxes! By shopping local, you can support artisans in your community, reduce the impact of shipping and give your loved ones truly unique, special gifts.
5. Recycle. Keep the recyclable materials separate and sort them into the right trash can. Who knows – maybe these can be used to wrap your gifts during the 2020 holidays!
   

At Itron, we are passionate about creating a more resourceful world by ensuring efficient use of energy and water. We invite you to partner with us in our mission this holiday season by taking small steps to reduce your holiday waste.