December 2006

Tip Sheets

Holiday Wish List

Fuel-efficient accessories for your “sleigh”

Automotive accessories and services make ideal gifts for everyone from avid car enthusiasts to those just wanting to jazz up their wheels. Some eco-friendly gifts for car lovers to consider are block heaters, new tires, tire gauges, free tune-ups, and much more. Fuel-efficient accessories will not only spruce up someone’s car but also help them save money in the future — which means you may get an even better gift next year.

A low-flow showerhead that rains down savings

Give the gift of a low-flow showerhead with a shut-off lever. This showerhead takes only minutes to install, but delivers big savings in water consumption and water heating by allowing you to interrupt the water flow. A low-flow showerhead uses 60 percent less water than standard fixtures.

ENERGY STAR: the brightest star in the sky

Give someone an ENERGY STAR®-labelled product rather than a conventional model this holiday season, and you could save that person hundreds of dollars in ongoing energy costs. An appliance receives the ENERGY STAR rating if it is significantly more energy-efficient than the minimum government standards, as determined by standard testing procedures.

Gifts that “get around”

After the holidays, spring is just around the corner, so consider gifts that help others get around, save money on fuel and protect the environment — all at the same time. Bicycles, in-line skates or even a pair of cross-trainers will be welcomed not only for your family and friends, but also by the planet.

Deck the halls with Light Emitting Diodes

This year, decorate your home or business with the latest in lighting technology and save money and energy at the same time. Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights last up to seven times longer and use up to 90 percent less electricity than traditional, energy-intensive, incandescent seasonal lights.

A fuel-efficient car: the gift that keeps on giving

If you are in the market for a vehicle for yourself or someone special, think fuel efficiency. A fuel-efficient vehicle is a gift that keeps on giving down the road. Visit vehicles.gc.ca for a wealth of information and tips to help you select the most fuel-efficient vehicle for everyday needs.

Facts about Christmas Trees in Canada

An evergreen Christmas tree is a centuries-old tradition that is now an icon of the holiday season. The Canadian Forest Service of Natural Resources Canada has advice on how to help ensure your Christmas tree remains beautiful and safe in your home throughout the holiday season. Commercial Christmas trees are grown on plantations and are not harvested from the natural forest. With a seven or eight-year harvest cycle, plantations generate income for farmers and landowners, and provide year-round employment in rural communities.

For more information on Tipsheet articles, or for an interview with subject matter experts, media can call 613-992-4447, or e-mail media@nrcan.gc.ca.