5 ideas for more sustainable Christmas gifts.
Piled by the dozen at the foot of the tree, wrapped in colorful paper and ribbon, Christmas gifts are the cause of many headaches. After a mad dash to get them, we often exceed the planned budget.
What if we did things differently? With a desire to combat overconsumption, here are 5 eco-friendly ideas for giving Christmas gifts while still enjoying making your loved ones happy.
1. Give less but better.
Let's be frank, we tend to think that a single gift "isn't enough". But what are three gifts worth if they won't last the coming year? What if we put the budget for three gifts into one? Focusing on its origin, materials, and durability should be our main concern when choosing a more eco-friendly gift.2. Gifts that do good.
Why not offer non-material gifts, even to children? Family outings, classes that support their interests, theatre tickets, cinema tickets, or even an exhibition. What if you were the gift? You can offer your time for small tasks, a particular talent that can be useful, or an outing of the recipient's choice.3. Locally made gifts.
Rather than buying "Made in China," opt for local businesses or at least those in your province. In addition to supporting Quebec artisans, you'll be offering original and quality gifts. Even if you have to go from one store to another, you will still have traveled fewer miles than a toy made in China or a T-shirt made in Cambodia and delivered to Montreal by cargo ship.4. A different exchange.
Suggest that people participating in the exchange try a more eco-friendly version. You can offer a homemade gift, a music compilation, books, or objects you no longer need. You can also propose an exchange of time or services depending on your talents... Or even a 100% Quebec exchange! The possibilities are endless, have fun.5. Creative packaging.
To present your gifts, a multitude of creative and eco-friendly ideas exist:- Reuse old packaging or a recyclable brown paper bag on which you can draw.
- Transform a scarf, a plaid shirt, a tablecloth, or a pillowcase into original packaging.
- Or, practice the furoshiki* technique with your old fabrics.
