Repeatedly, I have struggled with the idea of Holiday gift-giving and it's impact on the economy and the environment.
Year after year herds of people clamor to discount stores to purchase cheap, plastic junk to give as tokens of love, but how many of us consider the origin and the final resting place of our good intentions? Take a moment and think about what the real statement is when you lovingly offer the cherished folks in your life a potentially toxic, plastic remembrance, which was manufactured in some sweatshop in a foreign land.
Above all, where will your gift finally end up? Will it biodegrade? What toxins will it release? What toxins where produced in its production? What is the real cost of your token of affection? This year, try starting a new tradition of giving organic, natural and American made gifts that are all at once, healthy, good for the environment and the American economy.
It might take more effort to find eco-friendly American made merchandise, but the joy and deep satisfaction of sharing something which shows your personal commitment to worldwide impact as well as something that will be enjoyed and is designed to last will be worth the time and research involved.
Today, in America, there are only a handful of companies that actually manufacture quality organic products: most have good websites and will ship within the United States.
Consider a company such as Organic Comfort Zone, which has been in selling and manufacturing American Made, organic product for 20 years.
Other options and ideas for more eco-friendly, loving gifts may include shopping at your local farmers market or giving homemade baked goods.
Handcrafted gifts or artwork that reflects your local community is always appreciated.
Whatever your choice of gift-giving this year; make it healthy, environmentally healthy and not something that will simply end up in a landfill.