4 Tips for More Sustainable Holiday Lights Displays

The holiday season goes hand-in-hand with twinkling lights adorning homes and streets. What’s the environmental impact of these holiday lights and what are simple, guilt-free ways to light up our holidays?

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1. Switch off the lights

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For many folks who celebrate Christmas, lights are non-negotiable. But how much electricity do Christmas lights use? The Department of Energy estimates that Americans burn 6.6 billion kilowatt-hours annually using holiday lights. That’s enough to power more than 800,000 homes annually. 

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Something as simple as switching lights off regularly can do a world of good for the environment (and your wallet). Consider having your lights shine only during specific hours, such as early evening until bedtime. Make smart electronics your sidekick on this mission. Small changes like this will help ensure that your holiday display contributes to the festive atmosphere without adding to the overall energy demand.

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2. Embrace LED lights

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Traditional incandescent lights are energy hogs, contributing to higher electricity bills, increased carbon footprints, and fire hazards. Opt for energy-efficient LED lights, which consume up to 80% less energy and last 10 times longer. Moreover, they remain cool to the touch even after extended use, significantly reducing the risk of fires. By opting for LEDs, you’re not only doing your power strip a favor but also ensuring a worry-free holiday season for you and your loved ones.

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3. Minimize light pollution

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Heavy light pollution can be deadly for some animals by disrupting the daily cycle of light and dark. To minimize light pollution, the Energy Department recommends leaving them on less than eight hours a day, from dusk to around midnight. Not only will this help wildlife, but also conserve energy. You can make this easier by using timers or motion sensors to control when your lights are on. This way, you can enjoy the festive ambiance without negatively impacting your environment.

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4. Recycle old lights

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If you have old lights gathering dust in your storage, consider recycling or upcycling them. Your approach may vary depending on the type of lights you have. If you’re unsure how to tackle this, sources like Earth 911 can help direct you to the proper authorities. Doing this prevents hazardous materials from ending up in landfills and does your part to protect the environment.

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We don't have to sacrifice the lights, inflatables, and festive glow. We can enjoy a guilt-free and sustainable holiday season by making simple, conscious choices. To continue exploring such sustainability tips, download Commons and join our community of tens of thousands of people.