Dreaming of a green Christmas

By Andrew Williams on December 3, 2008 1:24 PM |

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Andrew Williams of Seventeen Events looks at ethical Christmas gifts in his weekly green column

Christmas – it’s all about the kids, right?

Well, whether your household’s infants are genuine little tearaways at this time of year or old enough to know better, there are many ethical gift choices that should keep them happy.

And, as I’m fond of saying, being greener doesn’t mean you have to have a second-rate festive season.

One of the coolest toys around this year is Wall-E, the recycling robot made famous by the Disney Pixar film.

There are lots of fun versions for all ages and, of course, the DVD is now available too. Hopefully kids who enjoy playing with Wall-E will remember the message of the film – that we can’t carry on dumping our rubbish forever.

Meanwhile, a trip on the Jubilee line to Hamleys in Regent Street offers gifts for youngsters who like their toys soft and fluffy. The World Wildlife Fund has a range of cute stuffed toys depicting endangered species, from tiny bush monkeys up to big pandas and seals. Buy these toys and you’re also supporting the valuable work of the WWF.

For the bigger kids (or more juvenile adults) there are also some great green options. Online gadget superstore iwantoneofthose.com has a dedicated section for greener gifts, including my favourite, a kit to make a working catamaran from old plastic bottles. Just what you’ve always wanted!

More Christmas fun next week with a look at winter fashions which can keep you wrapped up warm without leaving your conscience hot under the collar.