Eco tips for things to do:
- Avoiding excess packaging by thinking carefully about Christmas wrapping; non foil paper is best and you could even use tissue paper and decorate it with a bit of leftover/reused ribbon. Another option is to add a bit of greenery and string. You could also wrap gifts in offcuts of material. There are lots of eco-friendly wrapping ideas on the internet. In the past we have had a source to recycle Christmas cards and at this point we are not sure of the COVID restrictions but please be aware that the glitter on Christmas cards doesn’t break down so to be avoided if possible. We are still collecting cellophane wrappers though that cards sometimes come in. Please contact the POTR Freecycle group when you have a batch ready for collection.
- An estimated 8.4 million people are struggling to afford to eat in the UK. This number has probably increased since COVID 19. Find out how you can help from End Hunger UK and sign the petition calling for government to fix the universal credit to prevent more people from going hungry. Alton foodbank has also published their Christmas Shopping List For November & December. Please see below:
Please buy an item from this list of items for the foodbank for our Christmas parcels
- Tinned ham / gammon
- Tinned salmon
- Cranberry Sauce
- Stuffing mix
- Gravy granules
- Crackers for cheese / Savoury biscuits
- Crisps / Twiglets etc.
- Chutney
- Chocolate
- Christmas pudding
- Sponge pudding (Chocolate / Sticky toffee etc.)
- Hot chocolate
- Chocolate spread
- Christmas biscuits
The Alton Foodbank will be packing parcels from mid-November onwards so any donations will be gratefully received. Donations can be made in Sainsbury’s and Waitrose or to a box at the front of the Maltings. ‘The warehouse at the back of the Maltings is staffed from 10.15 to 11.15a.m. on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, where donations can be received during lockdown’.
- Six billion people rely on forests for their livelihoods. Forests are home to nearly half of the world’s species. Look out for the FSC label on products to make sure you are buying recycled materials and/or those from well managed forests. The forestry commission at Alice Holt between Farnham and Alton sell a wide selection of responsibly sourced Christmas trees
Alice Holt Christmas Trees (picture from the Forestry Commission)
