Every year billions of plastic bags are handed to shoppers in the UK.  These plastic bags take hundreds of years to break down.  In the meantime, as you can see in the video above, they just hang around waiting.  They get into our natural environment, and are not only unsightly, but also dangerous to our wildlife.

To prevent this continuing build up of old plastic bags, please say no to plastic bags when you’re offered one in.  Instead, take along your own reusable bags (keep them by the front door or in the car so that you don’t forget them).

For the last post of the year at Blog Green, instead of a list of suggestions for New Year’s resolutions, I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes by environmentalist and author Henry David Thoreau:

“What’s the use of a fine house if you haven’t got a tolerable planet to put it on?”

Let that thought lead you into 2009, and you can’t go wrong.

Have a great New Year.

Just a few last things to get you ready for your greenest Christmas ever.  Green festivities don’t have to be more expensive than regular festivities, in fact, you can save money by going green.  Don’t believe me, check this out.

1. Make your own decorations

Simple paper decorations can be very effective.  Recycle to make cool Christmas wreaths.  Recycle last year’s cards into this year’s baubles.  Make Christmas crackers out of used toilet roll centres.  Keep your decorations for next year.

2. Send eCards

3. Make your Christmas dinner from scratch.

I’m talking the Christmas pudding, mince pies, Yorkshire pudding and roast potatoes.  Yes, you really can make these yourself.  The internet is a great place to search for recipes if you don’t already have them.

4. Go TV free

No need to panic, it’s just for the day (or more if you like).  Switch off the TV and grab a pack of cards or the Ludo board for some family fun and bonding.

5. Buy less

Instead of buying a present for everyone, encourage your family to have a Secret Santa where everyone buys and receives just one present.  Buy second-hand where possible (you can do this for CDs, DVDs, video games and books on Amazon).   Tell people what you would like for Christmas (only the relevant people) so that you don’t get anything you don’t want or need.  Make your own presents.

If I’ve missed any other good money-saving (and green) tips for Christmas, please comment.