Seven Xmas Gift Ideas for the Eco-Minded

Are you weary of the commercialism at Christmas-time? If you'd like to get away from that -- AND help save the earth at the same time -- here is a list of 7 'eco-minded' Xmas gift ideas:

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #1:

Check out not-for-profit marketplaces for Xmas gift ideas that will also help local or third-world communities make a living or improve the lives of others. Four examples are: Alternative Gifts Intl, Just Give, OXFAM and PEOPLink.

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #2:

Give gifts that the recipient will appreciate... and that will somehow benefit the earth. Examples of these Xmas gift ideas might include a bird feeder (and click on the 'For The Birds' link on the left nav bar), organic clothing/bedding/towels, reusable tote bags, a bicycle, an energy or water saving device (and type in 'water saving' in the search box).

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #3:

Instead of one more toy for children, or one more material possession for the adults on your list, here are some eco-friendly Xmas gift ideas:

• stocks or savings bonds
• music, dance or other lessons
• the promise of a new experience, such as a boat or train ride
• tickets to a concert, play, or the local ski hill
• a course at the local College.

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #4:

Make a donation in the recipient's name to a wildlife refuge, save-the-whale fund or forestry renewal project. Click here for more information on this, as well as other Xmas gift ideas.

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #5:

Make a contribution to a political party or non-government organization that you feel is doing great things for the environment in the recipient's name.

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #6:

Instead of cutting down a Christmas tree, buy a live tree that can be replanted in the spring. Or decorate a large houseplant if space is tight.

Better still, just decorate a tree that's already in your yard... or plant a tree in a local park in someone's memory, and then decorate it for Christmas.

If you do opt for a real, cut tree, check into city-sponsored programs to recycle it after the season.

Eco-Minded Xmas Gift Ideas -- #7:

If you are set on having a store-bought wrapped gift under the tree, how about a low-flow showerhead, rechargeable flashlight, fire extinguishers, or a solar battery re-charger?

We hope you enjoy these eco-minded Xmas gift ideas for this holiday season!