With Christmas approaching, it’s the time of the year when shopping madness is at its high. Presents buying for the festive season is a very stressful exercise for many, not to mention the impact on the purse. But, what impact does it have on the environment? How many of us get caught in mindless shopping without thinking what the person we buy for likes, is that present something that lasts, or is it recyclable?

The other question we should ask ourselves is: how many presents do we need? Is one present per person enough, or our Christmas tree needs a big pile of colourful boxes just because it looks good?

Here are some points you might consider:

• Buying one present per person (especially in large families where everyone buys for everyone)
• Give something that is really appreciated and matches the recipient’s needs and likes
• Presents that are recyclable will last long and/or can be handed down
• Eco, organic and/or fair-trade presents
• Hand-made, homemade presents
• Choosing not to give presents at all (especially for adults)
• Putting our presents under a Wishing tree for less fortunate instead
• Pooling money among friends and relatives for a number one item on person’s wish list
• Think quality rather than quantity
• Avoid presents with excessive packaging

Some ideas for thoughtful presents:

• Homemade Christmas cookies – easy and cheap to make
• Any other homemade produce
• Consumables like organic chocolates, organic vine, natural soap or similar
• Charitable gift vouchers
• Plants
• Memberships or subscriptions
• Solar powered charger, lights or similar
• Gift vouchers for organic, Oxfam and fair-trade shops
• Homemade or organic body care products
• Farmers box scheme
• Wooden toys instead of plastic
• A book about sustainable living
• Chickens or ducklings
• Cooking classes vouchers
• Second hand gifts
• Flowers, fruit or vegetables from your garden
• Contributing towards Christmas meal with food or drinks
• If you have special skill or talent, voucher for doing or teaching someone that particular skill

Please share your tips on eco , organic and homemade presents in the comments.