The new year could be greener than ever as leaders around the globe get more serious about fighting climate change. What are your green New Year's resolutions?

I plan to recycle more or start my own compost pile.
I’m reducing my electrical consumption at home by using my dryer less, turning off extra appliances or installing power strips on computers, TVs and phone chargers.
A member of my family is commuting on public transportation or riding a bike or walking to school or work.
I’m greening my house by getting an energy efficient furnace/AC unit or making other energy-saving changes, like adding window tint, storm doors or an energy pump.
I’m changing my food habits either by eating more local or organic food, growing my own or cutting out meat because it is so energy-intensive.

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Fewer branches on greener Christmas trees

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December 2nd, 2008 · No Comments

By John DeFore

The big, smooth leaves of a magnolia tree may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the words “Christmas tree,” but a group of San Francisco tree-lovers are hoping some SF residents can modify celebratory habits for the sake of the environment.

The city government’s SF Environment department has teamed with Friends of the Urban Forest to sell area residents living “Christmas trees” that will sit in a pot during the holidays and be ready for replanting afterward. The groups realize that most urban dwellers don’t have yards to plant in, so the group says, “After the holidays, we’ll pick up the trees from you and plant them on our city’s streets.”

Trees cost $90, and come in magnolia and three other varieties. As seen here, none look anything like a Currier & Ives illustration. But each one “has been handpicked to thrive in San Francisco,” and their scrappy, little-tree-that-could personalities should make any ornaments that fit on their branches look all the more festive. Orders will only be taken through next Monday, December 8, so get ‘em while you can.

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