Action Briefing Dec 2005 - Jan 2006
	The Newsletter of Birmingham Friends of the Earth

Tips for a greener Christmas

It's around this time of year that the shops begin to fill with vast quantities of things to buy for Christmas.

I cannot walk to the Warehouse from the station without shop windows attempting to call out, lure me into their shop and buy items not needed, not wanted but bought - because it's Christmas, and isn't that what Christmas is all about? Spending money we don't have, for people we feel we should buy presents for - presents that will sit in someone's house collecting dust...

Now maybe I am just being cynical, and Christmas is the time of giving . . . giving your time . . . giving gifts.

Well, I have found a leaflet that was produced by Friends of the Earth a few years ago (before they starting sending almost everything by e-mail) with some handy, helpful tips for a greener Christmas! And seeing as our Green Christmas Fayre is on Monday 5th December, I thought I would share their advice, so here goes.

Christmas Trees
If and where possible you can keep your tree year to year. Asking for a tree with roots will mean you can plant it in your garden.

Christmas Cards
Nowadays there are so many cards made from recycled paper that there is ample choice. If you would like to reuse your Christmas cards, you can buy gummed reuse labels to stick in the cards. You can find these labels for sale, £2.00 for 50, at The Warehouse - just ask at reception.

Wrapping
We seem to produce and throw away a lot more this season, think about how and with what you wrap your presents. If you don’t already know where your nearest recycling plant is - find out. If you would like to work with us in the New Year, campaigning to improve recycling facilities in Birmingham then please contact Maud at the Warehouse.

Presents
Not that I can suggest ideas, I am terrible at choosing gifts. However, if you buy presents and are shopping around for ideas don't forget about our small shop at the Warehouse, with a range of recycled stationary, paper, tshirts, mugs and badges. Or as an unusual and ethical present perhaps you could buy your friends a share in Fordhall Farm.

Maud Grainger