CHRISTMAS

Sustainable gifting ideas

Sustainable gifting is a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas while being kind to the planet. Here are some sustainable gifting ideas:

Reusable items: Give gifts that encourage less waste such as reusable shopping bags, stainless steel water bottles, coffee cups or beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap.

Plants: Gift a potted plant or seeds that can grow into flowers, herbs or vegetables. They reduce carbon dioxide and bring joy and beauty.

Experiences: Offer experiences such as concert tickets, cooking classes, spa vouchers or outdoor adventures. Memories last longer than material possessions.

Homemade gifts: Create DIY gifts like homemade soaps, candles, photos or baked goods. This reduces packaging waste and adds a personal touch.

Upcycled or vintage items: Shop for unique, upcycled or vintage items from thrift stores or artisan markets. They have character, reduce waste and support local businesses.

Subscription services: Consider gifting subscriptions to eco-friendly services like organic food delivery, sustainable clothing rentals or digital magazines to reduce paper waste.

Donations: Make a donation in someone's name to a charity or organisation that supports a cause they care about. This can be for environmental conservation, social justice or any other meaningful cause.

Reusable or eco-friendly bags: Gift reusable produce bags, tote bags made from recycled materials or eco-friendly backpacks or handbags.

Zero-waste starter kits: Provide a starter kit with reusable straws, utensils, bamboo toothbrushes and other eco-friendly items to help someone transition to a zero-waste lifestyle.

Books and educational materials: Choose books or documentaries that promote sustainability, environmental awareness or DIY practices to encourage a more eco-conscious lifestyle.

The essence of sustainable gifting is to choose items that have minimal impact on the environment, promote ethical production and encourage a more conscious way of living. Shopping locally is a great way to support small businesses and local economy. Robyn Simpson

Roasted Christmas cauliflower

This recipe is a winner for Christmas and perfect as a side dish. It is plant-based and gluten-free.

Ingredients

 1 cauliflower (whole)  2 tbsp tahini

 4 tsp Dijon mustard  Cranberries

 2 tsp of maple syrup  Almond flakes

 1/2 lemon or lime (juice)

Method

Boil a pan of water, pop the whole cauliflower in for 5 minutes, then drain.

Lightly rub extra virgin olive oil over the cauliflower, season with salt and pepper and place in the oven to roast for approximately 35 mins (200 degrees).

Mix the tahini, mustard, maple syrup and lemon juice and add warm water to thin.

Once the cauliflower has browned remove it from oven and dress it with the tahini-based sauce. Sprinkle with cranberries, flaked almonds and some finely chopped green cauliflower leaves. Heidi Jenkins