During the holidays and Black Friday sales, it’s easy to get wrapped up in all the spending around this time of year. However, this is doing no favors to our planet considering the amount of plastic waste that goes into consumerism at this time. You can contribute to a good cause by just simply skipping Amazon this year and making homemade gifts or buying from small businesses.
While everyone may not have the money to shop with small businesses, consider picking up some clay and making your family gifts. It doesn’t have to look like a masterpiece because it’s sentimental. You could even make wax candles or take up crochet. There are so many low-cost options out there that won’t cost the environment.
However, if making gifts isn’t your thing shopping with small, family-owned businesses can make a positive impact on not only the planet but the owner of said small business. If it’s hard to source any near you apps like Etsy make shopping for small businesses incredibly easy. Or look through Facebook for these businesses in your area. You can find a group on Facebook called Joliet Small Business Resource Guide. In this day in age, the internet makes these things so easy it should be utilized.
Simply knowing these options are at your disposal is a great step in the right direction towards a cleaner environment and a handmade gift will mean much more than a disingenuous chain store gift. Handmade gifts tend to be more appreciated by family and friends.