eCards Help Save Trees, Encourage Green Lifestyles

Although I don't consider myself an environmentalist, I do care about our environment. It's one of the reasons why I embrace the growing trend of eCards. Another reason is that when I remember a birthday at the last minute, I can send an eCard, and I know it will still get there on time.

With more people looking to the Internet to keep the lines of communication open, eCards are quickly becoming more popular. Anyone can send an e-card. With more people having access to the Internet and having an e-mail address, almost anyone can receive an e-card, too.

eCards are also gaining popularity among environmentalists. According to saveatreecards.com, 42% of global wood harvest goes towards paper production. That's almost half of all the trees cut down. You can literally save a tree or two by cutting back on the amount of paper cards you send, especially when you factor in the extra paper for the envelopes.

If you're the type of person who will send out a box or two of cards every year, consider just how many you're sending out. Then consider how many you end up receiving back. Most of these cards just get thrown out after the special day is over. You could start a new trend among your friend and family by choosing to send eCards instead, and be a little kinder to our environment in the process.

eCards have come a long way since the less-than-impressive eCards that first hit the internet. They also give you more options than a paper card. An animated e-card is an option you have that you just can't find with the old fashioned greeting cards. Many also have music to accompany them.

What else do eCards offer that paper cards don't? They offer convenience, for one. eCards are easier to send. You don't have to go through the hassle of going to the store, buying the card, addressing the envelope, licking the envelope that who knows how many people have touched, spending the ever increasing amount of money on a stamp and then making sure you mail it on time.

With an eCard it's simply choose, personalize and send. How's that for convenience? And, for procrastinators like me, you can send it on the same day it's supposed to arrive.

Another perk is, of course, the price. If you can't find an eCard you like that is offered for free, you can probably find one you like for less than two dollars.

You can find eCards for almost any occasion. Whether your taste runs towards the serious, inspiring or humorous, you are likely to find an e-card that suits both you and your recipient.

eCards are a great environmentally friendly way to remember a birthday, holiday or just because.