Every year at this time, most people who celebrate the holiday hope for a white Christmas. Actually, Christmas embraces all of the colors of the season.: white for snow, ornaments of silver and gold, and red for the ribbons and bows. When we think of the color green, the evergreen tree and holly usually come to mind; however, today’s culture gives us another alternative.
So what part will you play in your eco-green Christmas? With the green movement expanding daily, what gifts do you plan on buying for your eco-conscious friends and/ or family? Here are a few green gift ideas you can wrap – of course, with recycled wrapping paper.
Bamboo . This renewable resource is very in today. Goods made from bamboo range from salad bowls and cutting boards to tables and chairs that can be used both indoors or out.
Rechargeable batteries. Merry Christmas goes hand in hand with ‘batteries not included.’They make great stocking stuffers.
Solar chargers. A number of small solar panels are on the market that will charge all of the electronics found in the average home.
Organic cotton. This material has taken off at warp speed and can be found in robes, slippers, caps and scarves. Be sure they are pesticide free.
Organic cosmetics. Burt put these products on the map, but today body lotions, butters, creas and lip balm are easy enough to find, and many are made by local vendors. Support your local green economy by buying from these cottage businesses.
Plants & kits.. This might sound like a plug for the aero-garden, but this small indoor hydroponic system is truly a wonderful gift. There are also many mini greenhouses available for the home gardener, as well as mushroom growing kits and terrariums. They also make great learning gifts for kids. – And don’t forget packets of seeds for the stocking.
Books. Everything you ever wanted to know about anything ‘green’ can be found in books. Whether you prefer to shop in a bookstore or on-line, there is something for every eco-friendly friend you have on your shopping list.
Donations. Giving a donation in the name of a friend or family member to an organization working for environmental causes is a gift that keeps on giving.
And don’t forget about all the packaging and wrappings that you discard after the big day. American trash output goes up over 25% during the holiday season. If you do your part to decrease your output, you will be giving a gift to the planet.
Happy Holidays.