Whats your Green Resolution and wish for 2009 ?

Brillinat idea Debs.

My thoughts are around food, the purchase and the waste. Apparently we throw away on average 30% to 40% of the food we buy. This does not include the amount that the Supermarkets throw away. So a resolution could be

To not be seduced into buying food which does not get used.

Suggestions being to plan meals obviously allowing for flexibility and changed plans. If meals are planned then better use of the oven and low energy users i.e slow cooker can be made.

To check the fridge every couple of days to see if any foods need to be used.

What do others think?

Just a note on how we did our Christmas shopping 2008.

1.Completed in July! - did it all online using fairtrade and ethical sites (no temptation from the rush and hype in the shops.

2. Purchased an alternative gift from Toybox Charity for my grandad who passed on 18 mths ago. It's my way of remembering him.

3. Donated food and toiletries to a Christmas shelter in Coventry for the homeless.

This year for all gifts (birthdays etc.). I intend to make more myself as well as purchasing ethically. Do we really need everything we purchase? Isn't it so much nicer to receive something handmande with a lot of thought and love behind it? Haven't got the money? How about giving time? Time is very precious and always appreciated.

This is all part of me trying to discover what Christams means to me. This year I have come to the conlusion that for me it is about family, togetherness and helping others.

I throw this out to all members. Any thoughts?

Angela I am loving the eating plans and watching food waste, I guess one could be more watchful and apply the "do we really need this" to clothes, furniture and toys to name a few!. Victorias comments linked in nicely with giving to charity. I agree that Christmas is about family and community. Even my children said its more about the meal together which is encouraging in a material world - however I feel we are all awakening to the fact that what we have is not important, hence the world financial blip - Love, Friendship and Community will rule!
This year I hope to get more ethical pressies and more wooden toys or locally produced products. Handmade inspires me! Perhaps we could all meet up and create, sharing resources and ideas - not just for christmas!.
I wish that 2009 brings inner peace to everyone that lets go and looks for the beauty in everyday.