Sustainable Cheer
As quickly as Thanksgiving plates are cleared from the dining table, Pennsylvania’s winter season whirls in. In what feels like the blink of an eye, bows of green embellish local shopping displays, holiday music echoes through the grocery store aisles, and the enchanting twinkle of Christmas lights illuminate your dark drive home. Accompanied by fond memories, generational traditions and cozy gatherings, the end of year brings with it a perfect opportunity for reflection and resolution.
Let the holiday season of 2025 be one of celebration and conservation. From outdoor adventuring to DIY décor, consider these sustainable suggestions that swap excess for intention this season.
Hiking in a Winter Wonderland
The days become shorter, the unavoidable frost blankets Northeastern Pennsylvania, and you begrudgingly clamber out from under the warmth of your bed to begin the day… Sound familiar? Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on your viewpoint of colder weather, embracing outside activities can actually combat the “SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) Season” in more ways than one.
In true nature’s irony, winter walking has been a proven way to boost Vitamin D levels, reduce stress, and maintain heart health, according to Health.org. If you’re fortunate enough to reside in an area that is walkable, consider lacing up your boots to visit local destinations. Choosing to walk to nearby places turns errands into refreshing seasonal moments and simultaneously lowers your carbon footprint.
“Deck The Halls”
Consider your next stroll through Penn’s Woods the perfect introduction to a sustainable decorating session. Choosing to adorn your area with naturally foraged items such as pinecones and evergreen clippings is a cost-friendly craft that reduces plastic use and increases lasting memories to be created with friends and family. Remember to harvest sustainably and responsibly. Dress for the weather, keep a field guide or plant ID resource on hand (iNaturalist is my go-to identification app), and be familiar with local regulations, as some locations prohibit foraging.
And A Partridge in a Pear Tree!
Among these personal suggestions of seasonal sustainability, winter bird watching is undoubtedly top of mind. As foliage dissipates into thin air (pun intended), bare branches offer a crystal-clear view of feathered visitors. Certain species are only spotted during the winter months, or are simply passing through, making the opportunity to observe them during the cold months that much more rewarding. In a time where natural seeds and forms of sustenance are sparse, consider supplemental feeding near covered areas or provide shelter in the form of brush piles and dense evergreens. Not only does this support species diversity within your yard, it supports conservation studies in the form of citizen science.
Give the Gift of Conservation
Whether you’re baking, crafting, caroling, or utilizing NEPA’s natural landscapes this yuletide season, rejoice in the spirit of sustainability. By celebrating with care, we honor both our community and the beautiful Northeastern Pennsylvania’s lands and waters that sustain us. Happy Holidays!
Learn More About North Branch Land Trust
For more information on North Branch Land Trust’s mission or to register for upcoming events, visit nblt.org. While you’re visiting the website, explore all the ways North Branch Land Trust conserves and stewards the lands and waters of Northeastern Pennsylvania! In 30+ years, the Land Trust has been a force for conservation in Northeastern Pennsylvania through the generosity of our supporters.
Featured Image (top): Conserved Land – photo courtesy of Brittany Lynn.
