The word is out, Santa’s coming to town. He’s checked his list and you’re all pretty much on the nice list. Good on ya! But what is Santa going to put under your No Waste Christmas tree ? Well, that’s kind of up to you! In the days to come we’ll be posting heaps of ideas for gifts to give to your family, friends, colleagues, and many others but we can’t forget that you’ll surely be receiving gifts in return. Yep, that’s right. Gift giving and sharing is usually a two way street. Those around you want to bring you happiness as well! Aw. Being the climate action goddesses that you are, you may have already had a think about what kind of things will put you further down the path on your climate action journey. The holiday season is a great time to put in a request for some of those essentials. If you can’t put your finger on anything specifically, don’t worry. We’ve come up with some awesome additions for your Planet Strong Wish List so next time someone pops the question, you’ll have the perfect answer. Fruits and vegetables box: Can you imagine opening your door to find a big box of delicious fruits and vegetables? We spend heaps of money on groceries every week as well as time. This year consider asking for a subscription to a weekly CSA or produce delivery service. Look for ones that source from local farms producing in season crops. By supporting local farmers with healthy growing practices you can lower your ecological footprint and benefit from tasty, healthy, and fresh food! Class or lesson in something that interests you: Been wanting to take a cooking class? Gardening? Kickboxing?! There’s no harm in asking a loved one to sponsor your new skill. Even better, ask them to take the class with you for some quality bonding time. Coupons for any experiences you’re dying to have- maybe a massage? Read more about experiences as gifts from our Climate Action Day series . Membership to a museum or tickets to a show: Going to a Broadway show or checking our the coolest new exhibit at a nearby museum can be an enlightening experience, open your eyes to different cultures, or even chat about at parties. The arts can always use your support! Locally produced artisanal good: Supporting small businesses is a great way to spread the holiday cheer. Maybe there is some aspect of your kitchen that is lacking (Olive oils, drinks, or fancy spreads or jams). Artisanal producers are great for creative and tasty additions to your pantry. But don’t let them sit in your pantry! Incorporate them into your cooking and don’t be afraid to think outside your normal strawberry jam jar. Your favourite of your friend’s recipes: One of my best friends has an amazing banana bread recipe. Every time we have some sort of potluck, I not-so-secretly hope she’ll bring it. This holiday season I intend on begging her for the recipe as my gift and/or teaching me her cooking methods. Teach a woman to bake banana bread and you’ll feed her for a lifetime. Do you know anyone with an amazing signature dish? Ask them to share it with ya. If you have one as well you can do an exchange! Sustainable fabrics: If you’re thinking your style has been a bit drab lately and looking for something to spruce it up. Consider adding clothing made from sustainable fabrics to your wishlist. You can learn more about the options on the 1MW Guide to sustainable fabrics . Is there an app that you’ve been eyeing but have been hesitant to buy? Apps are a great gift because they’re self-updating. It’s a gift that keeps on giving and can provide entertain you or provide information that is helpful for everyday life. I’d suggest doing some research on the app before you add it to your wishlist to ensure maximum worthiness. Although it may be a less exciting gift, asking for practical things that make your everyday life a little easier to be greener can be so helpful. They’ll have you thinking “Wow, I’m so grateful for (Fill in loved one’s name here)” everyday! Some examples:
- Flourescent light bulbs
- Solar Water heater
- Water wise shower head
- Train or bus pass
- Bicycle tune-up