Simple steps for eco-festive fun

Don’t let your good intentions go out the window as Santa comes down the chimney. There are plenty of ways to have a traditional yet environmentally friendly Christmas that won’t cost the earth.

Gift buying goodwill

There are lots of environmentally friendly ways to show your loved ones that you care this Christmas.

If you’re buying appliances or gadgets look for Energy Saving Recommended products as these use less energy than alternatives.

Trawl charity shops for vintage and antique items or buy products that will last a long time. Classic clothing and wooden toys will usually stand the test of time. Craft fairs are a good bet for quality hand-made items that often last longer than cheaply manufactured goods.

Make your own gifts - Wikihow.com gives instructions for a whole host of ideas from picture frames to personalised t-shirts and makingyourown.co.uk has a guide to making your own jewellery.

Check out the Energy Saving Trust eco feature at www.energysavingtrust.org. for eco Christmas gift ideas, which lists recycled, fair trade and natural ideas for the whole family.

If your gift requires batteries, opt for rechargeable ones such as the USB batteries that recharge from your computer.

Festive food for thought

Whether you’re having traditional turkey, fresh salmon or a nut roast, try to source your Christmas feast from local suppliers. The www.bigbarn.co.uk lets you enter your postcode so you can find your nearest suppliers and order the products online. Farmers’ markets are a lovely way to spend an afternoon and pick up some mouth-watering local produce. There are over 500 farmers’ markets round the country, Log onto www.farmersmarkets.net/findafmkt.htm to find one near you.

Sustainable seasons greetings

Say goodbye to pine needles and invest in a good quality artificial Christmas tree. They are very long lasting so don’t just throw them away after a few years and it saves you constantly vacuuming up pine needles over the festive period!

If you do want the real thing, go for a sustainably produced, locally grown Christmas tree. The British Christmas Tree Growers Association can put you in touch with organic and sustainable growers in your area.

Sparkle with LED fairy lights as they are more energy efficient than standard fairy lights. For outdoors, invest in solar powered fairy lights.

Reuse as much as possible. If you still have them, turn last year’s Christmas cards into gift tags or turn your old Christmas cards into new ones, the www.allfreecrafts.com shows you how.

Send Christmas ecards at www.care2.com rather than paper cards or buy recycled cards and wrapping paper.

Remember to take your own carrier bags when you go Christmas shopping

Walk off the Christmas lunch

If you’re staying local this Christmas, try to leave the car at home and walk as much as possible. It’s great exercise after all the over-eating and means you can enjoy a festive tipple without the worry.