Green Christmas Wish List

Yesterday I shared my unrealistic Christmas wish list, which I briefly considered calling All I Want for Christmas is a Good Night’s Sleep. Today, for the last Enviro-Mama Thursday of 2012, I thought I’d share my green Christmas list. Many of the items on this list are feel just as unlikely to me as the possibility of actually getting to visit the bathroom by myself. But if there’s a time of year tailor-made for big dreams and tall orders, this is it.

If I could have any gifts for a better planet this Christmas, here’s what I would ask for.

Lighting a (fake) candle for the planet

Dear Green Santa, Please Bring the Following …

1. Higher standards around the chemicals in our cleaning and personal care products. We shouldn’t be rubbing carcinogens or toxins into our skin – and we definitely shouldn’t be using them on our children.
2. For Canada to uphold its Kyoto commitments, and for strong national policies that actively reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change.
3. Proper labeling of genetically-modified food in North America, so that we can make an informed choice about what we’re eating.
4. Less plastic, and especially less unnecessary plastic. For example, why do some organic bananas come pre-wrapped in plastic bags? We don’t need it!
5. More local food, and not just at the farmers’ market. I’d love to see more local food at my grocery store when it’s in season, instead of produce shipped from thousands of miles away. Local carrots just taste better!
6. A good growing season this spring and summer, so that my garden produces like never before.
7. More affordable green products. I know lots of people who would love to be more green, but struggle to be able to afford to buy organic food, natural toys, non-toxic cleaning products and so on.
8. A society that is less focused on buying lots and lots of stuff. It’s expensive, it’s bad for the environment, and rampant consumption doesn’t bring us happiness.
9. Lots of good news about species that are experiencing population recovery, damaged habitats that are being restored, messes that are being cleaned up, and companies, governments and people who are making positive changes.

What’s on your green holiday wish list? I’d love to hear!

Be Sociable, Share!

•