Sustainability organisation the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth looking to raise funds by cashing-in on the Christmas season with its ‘Green Gift Shop’. It also hopes that it increases awareness of sustainability issues in a season usually associated with profligate consumerism and consumption.
Bucking the general trend, CAT spokeswoman Beth Bennet said ‘We are finding more and more people are wanting to buy green at Christmas, they are concerned about the environment and want to make sure that their Christmas gift does not cost the earth.’
On offer are such items as a portable folding wood burner, stove-top eco fans, and the intriguing Plumen low energy lightbulb, which won this year’s Brit Design Award. There’s also a range of sustainably resourced wooden and solar toys for kids.
The great advantage of green products is that they are well-made, ethical, durable and often save you money- they make fantastic presents, particularly in the current economic climate,’ said Bennet.
