Christmas, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, Oh My!
The holidays are such a special time of year. So many fun, festive, family-friendly events are occurring at home, in the local community and in the entire North Texas region. Wouldn’t it be nice to experience them all? However, according to The Washington Post, fossil fuel emissions will rise two percent by the end of 2017 and then continue to rise as 2018 approaches. Unfortunately, families driving to holiday events will not help the situation. According to an article on AAA Online, “the 2017 holiday weekend will see the highest Thanksgiving travel volume since 2005.” This increase in travel is due to people’s rising incomes and higher consumer confidence, which will continue throughout the rest of the holiday season. Keep this in mind, before you lace up your shoes, put on your jacket and pile into your car. Continue reading to learn about ways in which you can limit your fuel emissions, reduce your carbon footprint and improve air quality this holiday season.
Travel to Holiday Events on Weekdays
One good way to help limit fossil fuel emissions is to head to your favorite events on weekdays to avoid traffic congestion. This not only helps the planet, it benefits you as well. Weekday event options include skating around at Panther Island ICE, an outdoor skating rink currently open seven days a week through January 15th. Maybe even visit Enchant Christmas at Globe Life Park in Arlington Tuesday through Sunday until December 31st. This holiday spectacular consists of a maze of lights, a skating pond and a festive market. Finally, consider going to Holiday Wonder at Fair Park Tuesday through Sunday until January 7th. This event includes food from around the world, a holiday market and beautiful lanterns to look upon.
Carpool to Holiday Events
When going to these or any other events during the weekday, ask to carpool with friends and family to further eliminate fuel emissions. Better yet, take public transit for a fun adventure. The TRE is a great rail service that will take you between Fort Worth and Dallas. DART is also an option if you would like to take a bus, train or both in Dallas County. For activities in Denton, the DCTA is a great mode of transportation.
If you are wanting to find an event that is closer to home, walk to a light show in your neighborhood or local park. If your neighborhood is not putting on an event, walk around and see the lights your fellow neighbors put up. You will get some exercise, help the earth and as a plus, get to see twinkly lights and fun decorations.
These are just a few ideas to make your holiday more sustainable. Feel free to implement your own ideas as well, and have a Merry Christmas, Chanukah Sameach, and Kwanzaa yenu iwe na heri!
