The sad fact that some brave environmentalists are trying to make clear to everyone is that sustainability is only possible at this eleventh hour if we change our thinking about consumer products. As our numbers swell and more people in countries like China and India abandon their traditional lives and start buying a plethora of consumer products such as cars, washing machines and smart phones the more the planet is doomed to face shortages of oil, gas, metal ores, water and hardwood. And with this ever increasing consumption comes the quickening of climate change that is likely to cause flooding, species extinction and desertification.
One small way you can do your part to fight this doomsday scenario is to go green in your gift giving. There is always a gift giving opportunity around the corner – Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, anniversaries and birthdays. Here are a few tips to make your display of love and affection just that little bit more eco.
1) Use gift wrapping paper that is made from recycled paper. Nowadays recycled looks and feels the same as non-recycled paper. Think of the tree you are saving.
2) Consider your transportation. If you drive miles out of your way to buy a present for your friend you are releasing extra carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Try and combine your gift buying with your regular grocery shop or even walk to a shop to make a purchase. The alternative is to buy online from a reputable retail outlet such as Amazon.com. The mass movement of goods by Amazon is a lot more carbon efficient than your car journeys to the supermarket.
3) Think about what your potential gift is made from. The best green gifts are made from renewable resources such as bamboo, coconut, real rattan and hyacinth; or they are made from recycled or upcycled materials.
4) Finally consider the plight of the poor. Fair trade programs help people in developing countries make a living wage from their efforts.
Buying eco-friendly presents is the best way to show you care not only for someone else but also that you care for the environment.
