Most likely you've seen it all by now. Year after year, the holiday seasons strikes and people start running around streets and malls like hamsters in wheels. Wasting time and energy, so much energy, in what at the time seems like the most important thing in the whole wide world. Presents. A multibillion dollar industry which has twisted our perception about Christmas. And instead of being all about people, it becomes all about stuff. Another crazy round of spending money we don't have on things we don't need to create impressions that won't last on people we don't care about. OK, maybe except for the last part. We believe our followers do care about the people they spend Christmas with, for which exact reason this post is here – hopefully give some inspiring ideas for sustainable and nontraditional gifts, guaranteed to bring more fun and satisfaction for both giver and receiver. So, let`s talk about the gift of gifting: • Adopt an animal Most zoos have adoption programs. Usually the featured animals are threatened in the wild and the proceeds from your donation go towards the upkeep of your adopted animal. You receive a certificate and a cuddly toy which make an ideal wrappable appearance under the tree. • Give to charity

Your family and friends have everything. You know, when you really think about it. But what about those who are not as blessed? Christmas is the time we must help them. As sad as it is, there are tons of causes to choose from, so you can easily find the one most suitable for the person in whose name you wish to donate. • Have a volunteer vacation

Instead of spending your 2-week holiday in the usual selfish manner for next year, you and your loved one may go on a help-the-world trip. Dozens of noble causes need your participation, so this is an ideal way to visit an exotic destination and at the same time to provide priceless help.

• Avoid excessive consumption

Chances are your parents` apartment or house is not the most energy efficient building ever. And your folks might not be familiar with the numerous opportunities banks nowadays offer with lower rates on special consumer loans. It would be a wonderful, truly sustainable, long term gift. You might be helping with the monthly payments or simply collect the most favorable offers and discuss with your parents which one suit them best.

• Exchange unused gifts

Over the years we've all received pointless stuff. And we keep it just because it was a present; never opened, well hidden in a cabinet. But maybe someone else will appreciate it. At least they will appreciate the sustainable living idea. Invite as many people as you can, instruct everybody to bring their unwanted gifts and decide on how do you re-give them – lucky draw, chance or else. • Join farmhopping

Just a month from now you will be able to give a truly great gift to friends and family. Yes, next Christmas will be truly special, as group funding for farms will be a reality here. Becoming a farmhopper on their behalf will entitle them to receiving fresh quality produce, have a say in a plants or animals future or holiday in a sustainable farm. Subscribe now to our blog and we will keep you posted.

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