Gift-giving without breaking the bank (or the environment)
EVERY year, Aussies spend a whopping amount on Christmas with new research finding the average person is expected to spend more than $1200 this year.
That’s a lot of money – and a lot of stuff.
One in 10 unwanted gifts are expected to end up in landfill, according to Mackay business, Healthy, Clean and Green.
Healthy, Clean and Green owner, Wendy Steindl says that’s a staggering two million gifts and that’s not even taking into consideration the environmental impact of the product packaging and gift wrapping.
>> READ MORE: HEALTHY CLEAN AND GREEN: SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT
“Other unwanted gifts take a little longer to get there, they may clutter a shelf or cupboard for a while until the recipient feels like it’s ok to get rid of it, or it might go through the Op Shop process for a while, but the sad truth of it is, that eventually, a very large number of unwanted Christmas gifts will end up in landfill.”
Healthy, Clean and Green aims to bring better choice products to the Mackay community conveniently and affordably making it easier for people to make the switch to more environmentally friendly products, encouraging them to make better choices.
Therefore, Wendy has five ideas for better gift-giving this Christmas that won’t break the bank but will be a little kinder to the planet.
Gift-giving 1: experience
“For so many reasons people don’t take time out for themselves as often as they should… they’re too busy, they feel guilty or they simply can’t afford it… so consider an experience gift.”
Wendy suggests things like tickets to the movies or a show, treating them to a massage or a pedicure or buying a voucher for them to learn a new skill, something they’re interested in.
“The list is endless, so you can individually tailor your experience gift to suit everyone on your list, no matter your budget.”
>> READ MORE: HOW TO HAVE A WASTE-FREE CHRISTMAS
Gift-giving 2: time
“This is a really big one… never underestimate how valuable the gift of your time is. So why not, spend some time with the person who’s been missing you… tie a bow around yourself and ‘be the gift’!”
Wendy suggests giving time as a gift to your parents, children, partner or friends.
“When was the last time that you spent some quality time with your loved ones?”
Gift-giving 3: baking
“I’ve heard some people say that Christmas baking isn’t a ‘good enough gift’, however, as someone who doesn’t bake often but enjoys a sweet treat, I look at it differently… baking takes time, money and effort so in my opinion, if someone bakes for you, then they must think you’re pretty special.”
Wendy said to think about baking things like rocky road, rum balls, gingerbread or Christmas cake.
“Plus, if packaged right, baking can be a beautiful and completely waste free gift…not to mention yummy.”
>> READ MORE: HOW TO REDUCE PLASTIC WASTE IN YOUR HOME
Gift-giving 4: practical/supportive
“Surprises are nice, but sometimes it’s better to connect with the recipient and ask them what it is they really need right now.”
Wendy said it’s been a tough year for a lot of people and if they’re currently in a tough spot, a grocery voucher or a tank of fuel might actually be much more appreciated than a scented candle or pair of socks.
Gift-giving 5: better choices
“If you are going to buy a physical gift make sure you choose a better choice. That means making sure it’s something that the recipient wants, so it doesn’t end up as an unwanted gift statistic and then choosing reusable, zero waste or home compostable items or products that are made of better choice materials like stainless steel, bamboo or hemp.”
Wendy said good quality items with little to no packaging will go the distance and not need to be replaced for a very long time (if ever).
“By doing some research, you can find a better choice alternative for almost anything you’re looking for so again the options are endless and again can be tailored to your budget.”
For better choice gifts and more ideas on living healthy, clean and green visit Wendy’s website, Healthy, Clean and Green here.
