Havering Friends of the Earth

Celebrate responsibly

by John Robinson; first published 15-Dec-2023

A well-trodden walk in Cranham Brickfields - John Robinson

Here at Havering Friends of the Earth, we're looking forward to the festive season - but as you'd expect, we're keen to celebrate responsibly. Here are a few of our tips.

Try to give presents that won't end up in the bin! Hard-wearing, long-lasting wooden toys are a good choice. If you like crackers, you could make your own (kits are available) and choose something better than a plastic frog to put in them. Some charities offer an ethical gifting service, where you can sponsor their gift to a good cause, and they send a thank-you card to the person you nominate. Search online for ethical gifts for charities.

If your family uses a lot of batteries, why not include rechargeable ones and a good charger in the gifts? The technology has improved in recent years; batteries hold their charge for longer, and "intelligent chargers" can assess and cycle them to prolong their life.

Whatever presents you give, a simple wrapping such as recycled paper patterned with vegetable dyes, tied up with cotton string or paper ribbon, shows you care (and actually looks quite cool!). Pine cones and holly make great traditional decorations.

You could decorate a large indoor plant instead of a Christmas tree. If you do buy a tree, choose one with roots, and plant it out afterwards, if possible. At the very least, recycle it; cut it up for the Garden Waste Service bin, or there may be other options (search Havering christmas tree collection). There are even companies now that will hire out a tree to you, just for Christmas!

When stocking up with food and drink, be realistic! I used to fill the fridge with fancy cheeses, only to get sick of eating them in January; now a good farmhouse cheddar and a bit of Stilton are enough. Make the most of seasonal food such as parsnips, sprouts and nuts, leaving the likes of strawberries until the summer. If you can afford to, buy organic meat and veg, which are better for the environment.

Combat the fug after the Big Feast by willing yourselves to go out for a walk. It'll use up some of those excess calories, and you might meet someone new, or people you haven't seen for ages. By turning appliances off and leaving the car at home while you're out, you could even save money. What's not to like?