You can save money and stay green. Iowa State Extension Family Resource Specialist Phyllis Zalenski says a lot of waste is created during the holiday season but there are a lot of things you can do to stay green. One way is by using email to send invitations or greeting cards. Another is when it comes to gifts; she suggests gift cards or creating your own gifts. Consumable gifts are also a green option. Zalenski says these can cut down the amount of waste created during the holidays.