by Susan Hibberd

Created on: September 07, 2008

We all want to give our Mother something really special on Mother's Day to show how much we love and appreciate her. But it doesn't have to cost the earth! A carefully chosen gift can be environmentally friendly AND be a remarkable, memorable present.

Green' gifts include those which are sourced from environmentally friendly companies. When you look at gifts, check out the manufacturer on the internet, and find out if they work ethically, and in a Fair Trade manner. Is the packaging recyclable? Is the gift itself recyclable? How is it produced? Consider these things before you buy it's no good looking them up afterwards!

Green gifts include membership of various animal charities, zoos and conservation societies. These gift memberships often include special extras for members, such as access to areas normally denied the public. You mother might be particularly fond of horses, in which case an animal charity dedicated to rescuing horses in other countries might be the right gift to choose, for example.

There are many charities which work in the field of conservation, and operate world wide, such as the World Wide Fund for Natura. These memberships often come with a free regular magazine. If a magazine is not included, you could consider buying an annual subscription to a magazine such as National Geographic. Environmentally friendly and informative at the same time!

If your Mom likes the great outdoors, then some outdoor equipment might help her to get the best out of trips she makes. Wet-weather gear, binoculars, or walking boots would be great.
Enrolling yourself and yourself and your Mom into a local group gives you so much more than the membership itself. It gives you a chance to meet other people who like the same things that you do, and it gives you some regular you-and-Mom time.

Books are always a good green choice. Completely recyclable, and containing a wealth of knowledge about the world around us. Make sure that the books you choose are up-to-date, so that the information is not out-of-date. A little information about the need for conservation is always timely!

When you have chosen your gift, don't forget to use environmentally friendly wrapping. Choose a paper wrapping, or re-use paper or fabric that you already have. Make a personalized card at home - it will mean so much more!

Choosing a green gift for Mother's Day is a really great idea. It doesn't have to be a pair of green wellies and a shrimping net, but does have to be ethically manufactured. Choose wisely and you will be giving them more than the value of the gift itself.

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