Christmas shopping. Yep, that time again. And as you make
your way through the overwhelming sea of people in the crowded shops you cringe
inwardly, wondering why you didn't start earlier and then insistently promise yourself you’ll do better next year.
Well, aside from the crowd weaving you are also faced with
that little conundrum of what you are going to buy! If you are a conscious consumer
looking for something alternative to the usual material goods found in the
stores, then you will hopefully find this useful. There is an array of great
gift ideas out there that would not only be great for your friends or family,
but will also be making a difference in someone else’s life. Choosing fairtrade and ethically sourced gifts
is a great way to use your hard earned money for good, and to give something
beautiful and unique to your loved ones.
Here are 5 ways you can shop ethically this year:
1. Free Fair Trade Shopping Guide
The Fair Trade Association has defiantly helped
to make ethical shopping easier. They have created a Fair Trade Shopping Guide
that you can download from their website. It includes 60 endorsed and fairtrade
certified organisations.
Instead of buying another material item
this year, think about buying a gift that will help support a community aid and
development organisation. There are many to choose from, and every gift you
buy helps to meet the needs of people and communities experiencing poverty
and injustice. Here are some of my favourites:
- TEAR Australia Useful Gifts: http://www.usefulgifts.org/
- CBM Meaningful Gifts: http://www.cbm.org.au/gifts/
- Compassion, Gifts of Compassion: https://www.compassion.com.au/donate/gifts-of-compassion
3. Moral Fairground Market
If you live in Melbourne, then this one is
for you. On the 6th and 7th of December Moral Fairground
is running the Fair@Square market at Federation Square. It will feature a range
of fairtrade and ethical organisations. The market will also have a play tent
for kids, cooking demonstrations, talks, and much much more! Bring your
friends, take your kids, and enjoy a great day out while getting those
Christmas gifts.
4. Homemade creations
One of the best kinds of gifts you can give
is one that you make yourself. If you have the time, why not take a weekend to
be creative and make something special for your friends and family this year! From
homemade cookies and treats, to painted pots, iron on t-shirt designs, and photographs...homemade
gifts are always memorable. If you are short for time and still want to give
something uniquely made, why not buy from Etsy - a great website that has a
range of vintage and homemade crafts. https://www.etsy.com/
5. Online eco and ethical shops
There are a few online stores that sell a range
of ethical products. These are useful as they generally have great variety,
which means you can shop for many people at the same place! Here are a few to whet
your appetite.
Happy Shopping!
