One way to protect the coast is to implement environmentally friendly practices all year long, including over the Christmas holidays.

Some ways to go green this Christmas include using LED lights, which emit 80 percent less energy than traditional Christmas lights and last 10 times longer according to Today’s Homeowner. Limit your use of lights by turning them off when you go to bed at night.

Another tip from Today’s Homeowner is to go old-fashioned when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree. Visit a local tree farm and cut down your own or buy a live Christmas tree to replant in your yard after the holidays. Or you may choose to recycle your tree. If you live close to the coast, they use the trees for dune restoration projects.

When decorating, use food items as centerpieces. Cranberries, pecans, pinecones or even those delicious little satsumas can be decorative and then eaten. A win-win.

How about re-using decorations rather than buying new ones? And use recycled gift wrapping or get creative with newspapers or magazines, fabric or reusable gift bags.

Gift-giving becomes pretty easy when you give green. Items such as energy-saving devices, gift certificates for public transportation or health food stores, or a donation made in someone’s name can be very meaningful and appreciated. Really, how many of us need more stuff?

As for general tips for saving energy in the winter, be sure your home is well insulated, use a fireplace for heat when possible, and bump that thermostat down when you go to sleep or leave the house.

Enjoy a wonderful, green holiday season and protect our fragile environment at the same time.