The holidays present opportunities to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle products instead of disposing of them, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which offers tips for making your holiday season “green” in a recent press release. Here are a few ways that the EPA says you can practice the three “R’s”:

• Share the good tidings: Make room for new gadgets by donating your unwanted electronics. Used electronics that are still operating can be given to community groups, local schools, or nonprofit organizations. Some donations may qualify for a tax deduction.
• Shop smart: Carry a reusable tote when out shopping. Look for gifts made with recycled material and that have less packaging. Buy green electronic products.
• Look for opportunities to extend the life of old items: Why spring for a new family computer when you can upgrade your existing one? Borrow or rent certain party goods instead of purchasing new ones. If you are preparing for the upcoming digital TV transition, extend the life of your current TV by purchasing a converter box.

To see how others are being green and to let us know what you’re doing this holiday season: http://blog.epa.gov/blog/2008/11/26/more-holiday-cheer-less-holiday-waste/

Tips on reducing holiday waste: To see how others are being green and to let us know what you’re doing this holiday season: http://epa.gov/osw/wycd/funfacts/winter.htm

For a list of resources to help you donate or recycle your electronics: http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm