Christmas Presents!

In my bid to try and have an environmentally friendly Christmas, I decided to visit the Sustainable Wales Christmas Market in Porthcawl yesterday. I went looking for present ideas that would be free from mass produced toys made in China and the usual 3 for 2 Boots selection boxes. I wasn't disappointed. The Sustainable Wales stall had loads of great items for kids, with toys made from sustainable wood, bibs from organic cotton and hand knitted gloves. When it comes to present buying, one of my favourite items usually involve food, especially homemade jams and pickles, which always prove popular with a grandparent. Freecycle were there with a range of great presents to pick for free. But I also think it will be an even better site to go on post Christmas for all those unwanted gifts!

The fair inspired me to re-think what I will be buying for my family and friends this year, but in particularly what I wont be buying. Christmas has turned into a commercial enterprise which most shops rely on each year to boost their sales. This year more and more people are turning their backs on the high streets and really beginning to think about how they can give presents that are not only environmentally friendly and cost effective, but can also be original.

So here are are my tips for eco friendly and cost effective Christmas presents:

1. Freecycle - keep a check of whats on the site in your area. At the moment there have been bikes, chocolate fondue sets and board games!

2. Try to buy fairtrade to ensure that your gifts have been bought a fair and reasonable price.

3. You don't have to go without buying your dad the usual woolen socks, but chose ones that are made from organic cotton or even try to knit a pair!

4. Charity shops are cheap and environmentally friendly. This year it's all about going vintage! Customise bags, clothes and shoes to give your friends a truly unique present!

5. Buy locally - keep a check on your airmiles by choosing to shop locally and not online. Each time you buy something online, your carbon footprint increases with the distance those presents have to travel.

6. Make your own! From chutneys to truffles, everyone loves a foodie gift! Check out how to make these gingerbread twists!

7. Give away your time. For example, an evening babysitting or teaching your dad how to blog!

8. Buy a goat or fix a well, Oxfam offer presents for those who need them most ranging from £5 upwards.

9. Talking of animals, why not buy a couple of chickens to roam around your parents garden. Not only can you use the compost they produce for your vegetables, they give a daily present of fresh eggs!

10. When it comes to wrapping your presents, use old newspapers! A kitch way to recycle!