Join the Chicago Climate Action Plan team for a Green Hall Meeting on Thursday, January 13 at the Garfield Park Conservatory from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Learn about on-going climate action projects, accomplishments to date and future plans. There will be food, fun and prizes for all and a brief question and answer session at the end. Space is limited, so please register to reserve your space by emailing chicagoclimateaction@cityofchicago.org or phoning 312.744.9137.

This is the second meeting of a three-part series to introduce the Chicago Climate Action Plan to residents. The remaining Green Hall Meeting will be held in conjunction with the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation on Thursday, February 10, location TBD. >>For more information

1. Bring reusable bags from home when you shop. Consolidate your gift purchases into one bag rather than accepting a new plastic bag at each store.  
    
2. Buy gifts that are kinder to the environment, such as  educational eco-toys and recycled-content stationary. Or give non-material gifts, such as gift certificates or coupons for dinner, music lessons or event tickets. 
    
3. Invest in your family and friends. Instead of giving a gift, contribute to a child's savings account, education IRA or give them a U.S. Savings Bond. Or, give a monetary donation in a friend's name to a favorite charity.
    
4. Think up creative gift wrapping ideas. Wrap gifts in the comics, old calendars or maps, decorated brown grocery bags, or a colorful piece of fabric.
    
5. Donate old toys, appliances and electronics to a local charity or thrift store.
    
6. Use reusable dinnerware and glasses when entertaining.  Place clearly marked recycling containers at your party for guests to recycle their cans and bottles.
    
7. Recycle your holiday tree instead of sending it to a landfill.  >>Visit the City's website to learn how to recycle your tree in Chicago. 
    
8. If you're leaving home for the holidays, turn down your thermostat and put your lights on a timer to save energy.