Well Easter is one holiday that is really not very eco-friendly. There’s the cheap plastic eggs, the plastic grass, the brightly colored candy full of artificiality. But, for those that celebrate there are plenty of ways to make choices that are friendlier to the planet and your wallet.

Photo via Flickr

Baskets: An essential for that egg hunt!

1. If you already have a basket, reuse it! Reusing is the first rule of green. Unless your basket contains toxic materials, like PVC, keep on using it.
2. You can make your own from paper, wool, or traditional basket-making materials depending on how crafty you are.
3. Buy a fair trade basket. Locally made or even just American made from companies that pay a fair wage are other good options.

Grass: Get rid of the fake grass! Not only is it a pain to deal with, but it is definitely not green. There are several more natural options if you need a cushier look for your basket.

1. Shred paper in the recycling bin or old magazines. Once the holiday is over you can either compost or use for shipping packages.
2. Buy a natural and/or recyclable filler like raffia or Kraft shred.
3. Grow real grass right inside your basket! Line your basket with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Fill with soil. Sprinkle a handful of wheatberries (takes a week or so to sprout) or rye grass (takes 2-3 weeks to sprout). Keep warm and moist and once it begins to sprout put it in the sunlight.

Eggs:

1. Buy local and/or buy organic.
2. Make your own dyes with 1/2 cup water, 1 tbsp vinegar, and a few drops of food coloring until you get the desired shade. It will take just a few minutes for the eggs to turn a nice color with this method.
3. Want to make even more natural dyes? Not quite as kid-friendly as the best way is to boil color with eggs, but it might be fun for the little ones to gather up the supplies around the kitchen and see how they create the colors on the eggs. Click here for detailed instructions.

Treats:

1. For those that simply must have candy. Try fair trade chocolate, organic lollipops, or organic fruit snacks. Natural Candy Store even has vegan, kosher, and allergen-free among their selections.
2. Cute Duck and Frog washcloths are fun for the little ones.
3. Books: Counting In The Garden, Guess How Much I Love You, Little Quack Music: Animal Playground -are all great choices for kids.
4. Cute little Spring shoes and outfits for baby!
5. Wooden play food is a fun choice for kids over 3. Apples, carrots, pears.
6. A pocket magnifying glass for examining bugs or leaves for your little explorer.
7. Fat Rabbit with Snuggle Blanket is a sweet gift for babies.
8. Under The Nile’s plush organic fruit and veggies are perfect for little Easter baskets.

Try one way to make your holiday a little greener or try them all, but in any way have a hoppy Easter!