Bing Crosby may have dreamed of a white Christmas but as many Americans adjust their lifestyles to become more environmentally friendly, some will be looking forward to a green Christmas Your Better Business Bureau has advice to help families go green this holiday, and maybe even save some green in the process.

According to a survey by Plow and Hearth, half of Americans plan to purchase an environmentally friendly gift this holiday season. Among those going green this year, two-thirds say they are willing to spend between 10 and 25 percent more on green holiday gifts.

Unfortunately, most of us aren't very kind to the environment during this season of giving, and this period usually ends up being one of the most wasteful times of the year. From using candles and wreaths made of recycled materials to homemade gifts and creative gift wrap, people can help themselves and the environment.

Here are a few ways consumers can aim for a more environmentally friendly holiday season:

DECORATE WITH CARE: There are many ways consumers can decorate green this year. LED Christmas tree lights are a pricier option to conventional lights but they require about 80 percent to 90 percent less energy and last much longer-- up to 200,000 hours -- compared to 2,000 hours for conventional lights.

Rather than buying an artificial tree or a fresh tree that will end up on the sidewalk come January 1, consumers can opt to buy a live tree that they can later plant. When it comes to decorating that tree, making ornaments and garlands from gingerbread, Christmas cards, popcorn and cranberries is a great family craft project and is better for the environment than plastic tinsel and ornaments.

GIVE MONEY TO A CHARITY IN SOMEONE'S HONOR: Charities are expecting a lean season of giving this year as the result of the downturn in the economy. Donating to a charity in a loved one's name is a great way to further a worthy cause, and it doesn't have any negative impact on the environment. In fact, if the gift goes to a charity that deals in conservation, the gift will have a doubly good impact on the environment. To make sure donations are going to credible, conscientious organizations, donors should always research charities first with the BBB's Wise Giving Alliance -- and can do so at www.bbb.org/charity.

GIVE GREEN: Many stores, both online and brick-and-mortar, specialize in green products such as organic foods and gifts made from recycled goods. When shopping online, consumers should always look for the BBBOnline seal. The seal tells the shopper that the company adheres to BBB Standards for Trust and operates a secure Web site for financial transactions.

GET CRAFTY: For do-it-yourselfers, there are many Web sites and online communities dedicated to making new and useful items from things most consumers consider normal household clutter. Skill levels for craft projects range from easy to expert. Homemade gifts, such as baked goods, are also a lot easier on the wallet -- and potentially the environment -- and often bring much more meaning to recipients.

DISPOSE OF THE OLD -- WITH CARE: Electronics such as cell phones, TVs and computers contain toxic materials that should be disposed of carefully and not just tossed out with the trash. Many companies will take back and recycle their products for free. Some retailers also accept trade-ins. Consumers can search for company policies and recycling locations online, and a good place to start is at Earth911.org.

For more trustworthy consumer advice on going green this holiday season, and for many other tips on saving money this year, go to www.bbb.org.

Kelvin Collins is President/CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central Georgia & the CSRA, Inc. Serving 41 counties in central Georgia and the Central Savannah River Area. This tips column is provided through the local BBB and the Council of Better Business Bureaus.