Minimizing your carbon footprint is one of the best things you can do during the holiday season –especially with all the travel and time people typically spend in cars, trains, or planes.

If you must travel this year, use public transportation whenever possible. Taking the train or bus instead of a flight is preferable, but if you must fly to your destination, try to book a direct flight as taking off and landing requires serious amounts of fuel.

Shopping online is another great way to reduce the time, energy, and fuel wasted driving to the mall, getting stuck in traffic jams, and endlessly circling around looking for parking. Shipping carriers like UPS now offer merchants the opportunity to purchase carbon offsets for their shipments. Ask online retailers if they use this option. Or take advantage of online retailers who offer electronic gift cards or certificates. What could be better than kicking back in the comfort of your home and using a computer to get all your holiday shopping and delivery handled for you? Skip the crowds, traffic jams, endless circling around looking for parking, and the long lines at the register. Use the money you save on gas to by nicer gifts!

And finally, skip mailing out holiday cards especially if your list is long. Consider using online card services like Paperless Post or for more whimsical offerings try Jacquie Lawson Animated E-cards. If you must send physical cards, choose cards made with recycled paper stock and if at all possible, vegetable or soy-based inks. Or, if you’re so inclined you can make your own. Crafts supply stores like Michaels carry a variety of paper stocks in different colors and now Martha Stewart has a line of craft making tools that make it easy and fun!