As if by magic, December has arrived again. In addition to cosiness, chocolate and decorations, the festive time of year also brings with it the question of Christmas presents. Unfortunately, the search for presents for loved ones is rarely straightforward, and ideas for the perfect present rarely forthcoming. Because let's be honest, your father-in-law certainly doesn't need yet another pair of socks, even if his grandchildren's faces are printed on them. This year, how about making a few gifts? It’s a great way to pay a little attention to our environment at one of the most consumerist times of the year.
Reaching the goal in small steps
It’s not always the first thought at Christmas, but we should be mindful of sustainability topics year round. Setting your own goals to help the environment a little more on a small scale is not always easy, but it's worth it. We know what we're talking about. Our "Journey To Green" is not always the easiest path for our customers and the PURELL® team, but we are proud to be able to make our contribution to a more sustainable future. Even if it means taking a diversion from time to time.
Simple gift ideas for a greener Christmas
The Christmas tree is already green at Christmas, but the presents can and should also be a little greener in their creation and purchase. Sounds complicated? Not if you know how.
1. Time together as a gift
What we all have far too little of is time. Especially together, don't we? So why not give this as a special gift. Simply think about something that the other person likes, e.g. going to the cinema, a special dinner or a weekend by the sea. Then make a voucher for it and reserve a day or period in the calendar together at Christmas. Because (pro tip!) what is firmly in the diary is less likely to be postponed. And you immediately have something to look forward to in the new year.
2. Culinary delights from your own kitchen
The way to a person's heart is through their stomach, and Christmas is no different. Loved ones are always happy to receive something sweet or savoury that comes from the heart. Sounds complicated? It doesn't have to be. Roasted almonds, for example, can be made in no time at all. There are plenty of recipes online and these little Christmas snacks packaged in a pretty jar really make a statement. The same applies to biscuits, which are usually baked during the Advent season anyway. Bake some more and provide a sweet surprise under the Christmas tree. Don’t forget to wash your hands before you get the ingredients out though!
3. Used instead of bought new
There are now more and more good old flea markets and online platforms for second-hand items and buying second-hand items is becoming increasingly popular. Not only does this often make quite a difference in terms of price, but also for the environment. Well cleaned and gift-wrapped, the next person will enjoy it. With a little effort and craftsmanship, you can often add your own personal touch. Has your partner been wanting a special sideboard for the hallway for a long time? Some flea market finds that have been bought second-hand, sanded down and repainted really make a statement.
4. Packaging, but sustainable
Not everyone has the extra time to take care of more sustainable gifts - completely understandable. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, sometimes it just has to be a quick online order so that no more time-consuming to-dos end up on the list. However, a more sustainable Christmas can also start with the packaging. Use plain paper instead of hologrammed paper which is impossible to recycle, reuse gift boxes and bows or simply use colourful magazine pages as wrapping paper.
Christmas is simply a very special time of year, with or without homemade presents. We at PURELL® hope you have a peaceful festive season and enjoy some time to relax.
