Sunday 30 November 2008

Giving greenfully!!



Christmas is just around the corner and it's that time where we all look for something to give our friends, relatives and, if we are in business, we may like to thank our key clients. When you select a gift, there is a new factor, as well as price and quality. This new factor is how this gift represents you as being someone who cares for the planet.

That does add some complexity - but it is quite simple. For your greetings, use email or cards printed on recycled paper. If you are purchasing sweets, chocolates, cheeses or other edibles, then consider locally produced instead of imported. For wines, consider wine from your own country - that's easy in Australia as we have a wide range of good local wineries. If your gift is one from another part of the world, then think about Fair Trade goods, such as Fair Trade coffee.

For a more expensive gift, you may like to give an experience, rather than something that may end up in a drawer unused. And think of experiences that are low impact, such as a voucher for a kayak or sailing cruise, rather than a jet boat around the bay. If you give a dinner in a restaurant, always ensure that the venue has a wide range of vegetarian options. Just use some thought so that the gift you give is one that is appreciated for its environmental impact as much as for its thought.

pic ex Flickr Christmas Gift Tags from MyTangerineDreams

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