On Wednesday, the EPA issued the first national standards ever created to improve air quality by reducing mercury and other toxic air pollution from U.S. power plants.

Millions of Americans will breathe a little easier because of the new standards, which will prevent many serious health issues and premature deaths each year, save billions of dollars in health care costs, and create thousands of new jobs without creating significant hardships for the power industry.

To learn more about the new standards, see: EPA Issues First National Standards to Reduce Mercury from Power Plants.

Peace on Earth doesn't just apply to resolving war between nations or feuds with your in-laws; it's also a good long-term goal for reducing humankind's harsh treatment of the environment.

Learn how following a few simple steps can help you have a green Christmas that will be as much a celebration for the planet as it is for your family.

Also Read:

• How to Have a Green Christmas
• Top 10 Tips for a Green Thanksgiving
• Green Halloween Tips: Tricks to Make Your Halloween a Treat for Mother Nature

Everyone knows about the power of mistletoe at Christmas, right? It turns holiday romance democratic by making everyone equally kissable. But there is more to mistletoe than kissing and holiday merriment.

This year, as you await your chance under the mistletoe with that special someone, consider these fun facts--environmental and otherwise--about the unassuming little sprig that promises to enliven your holiday season.

_{Photo courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey}

Every Christmas you ask yourself the same question: Is it better to get a real Christmas tree that has to be discarded after a few weeks, or a fake Christmas tree you can use year after year?

Learn about the potential health and environmental consequences of both real and fake Christmas trees, and a third alternative that just may offer a more eco-friendly answer.

_{Photo courtesy of Paul Anderson}