Peoria's sustainability efforts seek to reduce the city’s effect on the environment, conserve energy, and encourage citizens to meet their needs without compromising the needs of the future.

So during the holiday season, the city is asking residents to consider these sustainable tips:

• Get creative and wrap gifts with materials available around the house like old maps, comics, or paper shopping bags. Fabrics like scarves, bandanas, or dishtowels work well as functional and reusable wrapping.

• While planning your holiday meal, see how much of the food you can source locally from farmers' markets, bakeries, and local meat producers.

• A homemade gift basket of essentials or homemade goodies is welcome under any tree.

• If giving or purchasing appliances and electronics this season, look for EnergyStar or WaterSense labeled products to make it an efficient and cost-saving gift that keeps giving.

• If your gift needs batteries, consider including rechargeable batteries for longer use and less waste.

For more information on Peoria’s sustainability program, visit www.peoriaaz.gov/sustainability.