Ethical consumer choices at Christmas

[Alanamackree]

I’ve found myself shifting in my attitude towards Christmas this year. I’m trying to make more informed and ethical choices as a shopper, but it’s all very new to me!

Are there any particular companies that you would support for these reasons?

I’ve been impressed with turtle doves who make gloves/scarves out of recycled cashmere. No plastic packaging, etc.

And, The Ethical Silk Company who are socially and environmentally responsible and don’t even hurt the silk moths.

Not really any practical help (but your thread might get bumped). For a few years now we've only given small presents to close family and our children each choose a charity for us to donate to. The amount varies depending on what we can afford. Charity shops are good on a tight budget because the damage has already been done.

I have one of the turtle doves neckwarmers and it is excellent.
I try to get gifts from local craft fairs)shops etc. Could also look at the Oxfam gift shop online.
I also try to keep gift giving low key, avoid 'novelty' gifts and buy food/drink that I know people like. Anything to try and avoid stuff going to landfill.

Buy as little physical stuff as possible - instead, buy experiences (theatre tickets etc) or make your own stuff. Or just don't buy presents for anyone over 18 (my family's approach. V liberating!).

The main shift IMO is changing one's mindset away from buying pointless crap to fulfil social imperatives rather than because anyone actually needs or wants it.

Quality over quantity has been what I've been trying this year - less is more! For children, and some adult bits, but mainly toys, Babi Pur is a brilliant website. Their customer service is brilliant (family owned and run) and they really research their products/suppliers.

Agree with PP about avoiding novelty gifts. I'm trying to only get things I know the person would use and enjoy.

You could try crafting some gifts - spice kits, bath salts, soaps etc?

I'm trying to get useful, eco friendly gifts - reusable make up wipes, hand made local toiletries. Massages. For some people. Hard to do it for everyone
We're wrapping in brown paper, hoping that helps ....

I second shopping at Babi Pur, they have everything you could need for children and also lots of eco home type stuff for adults.