There are several ways to have a green vacation, even a very merry green Christmas. It all begins before you leave home. Start by lowering your heater to 60 degrees and adjusting your water heater to the lowest setting. Then unplug all unused appliances such as your TV, toaster and other electronics that will not be in use while you are away from home.

Next thing to consider is your transportation to your emerald green Christmas on the Gulf Coast. If traveling by plane, opt for direct flights and be a minimalist when packing so you can skip checking a bag. Save some paper by using a digital boarding pass rather than a printout.

If you live close to the Alabama Gulf Coast, that’s even better: Selecting a location close to home saves on transportation costs and makes it better for the environment.

To complete your green Christmas plan, find the perfect green accommodation. Look for lodging with third-party recognition such as ISO 14001 or LEED building certification. Be sure to ask questions about what they are doing to provide a green stay. Even small bed-and-breakfast inns, vacation rentals and hotels along the coast are making strides to help the environment. Don’t skip the possibility of camping outdoors for the greenest Christmas.

Once here, maintain the green theme by reusing your towels, and bringing your own shampoo, conditioner and soap instead of using the small bottles provided. Also, pack your own reusable bottles instead of buying bottled water.

Now it’s time to get out there and enjoy the white sands, emerald waters and red sunsets – the perfect backdrop to your green Christmas.