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 Our Environment »

Green Christmas Tips

 

If not a white Christmas - make it 'Green'.

There are many things you can do to be a 'Sustainable Santa', so Council has put together a list of tips for this festive season:

GREEN GIFT IDEAS

  • Choose gifts that support eco living (such as fruit trees, herb plants, endemic plant species, bicycle, refillable pens, paper making kit, solar power gadgets, worm farm)
  • Choose products that are free from harmful chemicals and ideally certified organic
  • Choose practical gifts that are useful and serve a need (avoid landfill)
  • Choose gifts that support ethical and environmental causes
  • Give a gift voucher or membership for something your loved one is interested in
  • Check out the markets for gifts that support local artists/ community groups
  • Give a a 'time voucher' such as cook a meal or wash their car.
  • Buy toys that are repairable and durable.
  • Visit the charity shops/op shops or second hand markets for old yet inspirational gifts
  • Invest in rechargeable batteries and a recharger as it works out cheaper in the long run.
  • Donate time or money to an ethical cause on behalf of your friend
  • Give unwanted gifts to your friends or charity
  • Drought tolerant garden plants

WHEN SHOPPING

  • Avoid PVC (polyvinylchloride), a toxic plastic used in furniture, hand bags, toys and gift packs
  • Avoid packaging, minimise what you can!
  • Reduce waste by choosing products in reusable packaging or recycled packaging ( make sure plastics are recyclable - check for the triangle symbol and number)
  • Take your own reusable bags and say no to every plastic bags offered

Updated 1st October, 2009.