Green Giving for the Holidays! — Monday, December 19, 2011
Consumables: Consider gifts that won’t just “sit there” or instantly be relegated to the “give away” box. Chances are if you don’t want it, there may not be anyone that does. Instead, think about the basics: everyone loves or at least has to eat food – great to buy something local and organic: gourmet coffee with locally made mug, gift certificate to the Farmer’s Market, Saskatoon berry chocolates, a local food basket with cheese, jellys, chutneys, bread, even SK made wine. Is it made sustainably? Can it be reused or recycled when the giftee is done with it?
Gift Cards: People may feel these are impersonal, but I know some very picky people. And it seems that everywhere I read about people trying to simplify. I would much rather give something that want than exchange “just a little something” that I know is just more clutter for them to deal with. For teenagers, picky husbands, distant relatives, teachers, anyone you don’t know “exactly the right gift”, a gift card says “we want to give you something YOU want.”
Gift of Experience or Service: I’m not saying you have to give the “gift of a hug”, although I like to get them, but focus on an experience that isn’t going to be “stuff to get rid of in the end”: movies –we just received the gift of movies and it was well-appreciated. Every year, my Dad, although an active 82 year old, very much appreciates the lawn mowing & snow shovelling service we purchase for him. And again, there is something for everyone.
Charitable Giving: Recognizing that some of us have more than enough, while others do not, charitable giving has become an increasingly popular. Consider giving to a registered charity like the Saskatchewan Environmental Society, or any other charity that resonates with the person’s values to whom you want to give.
