Eco-friendly gifts #1 ... for weddings and the Holidays too?

Here are some excerpts from HTGMIG (the book) about eco-friendly wedding gifts that could well be helpful ideas for the upcoming Holiday Season too...

Energy-efficient electrical goods. Most major manufacturers of anything from freezers to toasters are now much more conscious of the need to be energy-efficient and new models are being produced that comply with this. The majority of new electrical goods and appliances must be clearly labelled with their energy efficiency rating so you know just how well they will perform. (Secondhand appliances are not required to be labelled this way, though.) Key "energy efficient electrical goods" into your favourite search engine.

Low energy lightbulbs. Not the most glamorous of wedding gifts but useful all the same! These bulbs are widely available from electrical stores, supermarkets and other retail outlets.

Environmentally friendly furniture. Ensure that any new furniture that goes on your wedding list is made from sustainable or reclaimed wood and other materials, and that upholstery is made with natural, fairtrade fabrics. Try if you can to specify locally made furniture, so supporting eco-consumerism. Key "Eco-friendly furniture" into your favourite search engine.

Recycled glassware. A number of companies both online and offline offer ranges of very attractive glassware made from recycled glass. Obviously this includes various different forms of tumbler, wine glasses etc., plus vases, dishes, bowls, and so-on. Key "recycled glassware" into your favourite search engine.

Cookware. Some people say that stainless steel, coated metal and even aluminium pans and casseroles can be a problem as there is the possibility of metals and other substances leeching out into your food. Cast iron is said to be the greenest option. And because they're so heavy you'll develop powerful muscles in your arms through using them! It's also sensible to choose good quality cookware because provided that you look after it, it should last for a very long time, unlike the cheaper materials.

Plastic kitchenware. Try if you can to suggest biodegradable plastics for kitchenware like washing up bowls, colanders, dish racks, etc. At the time of writing there does not seem to be much on the market along these lines but such products may be available in the future. Ordinary plastic kitchenware is, at least, likely to be recyclable.

.....more soon! Sz