As we step into the holiday season, it’s a great time to reflect on the impact of our gift-giving and decorating. Many of the items we buy end up in the trash soon after the festivities, contributing to a cycle of waste that strains our planet. Check out this video that went viral: The Story of Stuff. This season, let’s consider a shift towards a circular economy—a model that emphasizes reusing, repurposing, and reducing items we are considering throwing away.
By choosing gifts that are durable, sustainable, or even second-hand, we honor Rotary’s Four-Way Test by promoting fairness, building goodwill, and ensuring that our choices benefit everyone, including future generations.
In addition to embracing the circular economy, consider supporting refugee artisans this holiday season, by purchasing from organizations like Made51, which brings refugee craftsmanship to the world. In this way we can help individuals rebuild their lives while investing in a sustainable, equitable world. Other ethical shopping choices can be found at local craft fairs and sites like Etsy. Last, consider making or buying reusable cloth gift wrapping.
A highlight of the holiday season is watching little ones open presents and the best way to give is the Rotary way!
This holiday, let’s give thoughtfully and sustainably, creating a ripple of positive impact that goes beyond the season.
