By Ethan Ewing, president of Bills.com

1.       Plan ahead. If you are two days away from a holiday with nothing planned, human nature says that you will be more likely to hit the mall and load up on somewhat random gifts for your list. By not planning in advance, you also make it more likely you will spend too much – and give gifts that wind up adding to the planet's waste.

2.       Give non-material gifts. Instead of handing over a pile of gifts, give thoughtful experiences or build future value. Buy theater tickets or movie passes, make a donation to a charity in the recipient's name, or contribute to a 529 account or other savings account for a young relative.

3.       Consolidate online purchases - or buy local. If you buy gifts that will be shipped, order everything at once. You'll save time and minimize shipping costs as well as the environmental impact of shipping. Reuse boxes and packing peanuts, or give them to a local mailing shop for reuse. Even better, choose locally made products. In so doing, you will support your community, find one-of-a-kind gifts (often at great prices, especially if you frequent craft fairs and school auctions), and avoid transportation waste.

4.       Think useful. Give gifts recipients can use to cut down on waste or create value in their lives. Tools can help a would-be furniture maker get started; quality reusable bags can spur a friend to make good on a commitment to use less plastic.

5.       Go digital. Instead of paper holiday greetings (which cost money, add to recycling or landfill loads, and use oil resources for delivery), send electronic cards -- even free versions are available. Instead of a traditional camera with film that needs developing, use a digital model and view the photos on your computer screen instead of in printout versions. If you are dedicated to film, use a reusable camera rather than disposable.