Last-minute 'Sustainable Secret Santa' gift ideas for Scots running behind schedule

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Scots running out of time to buy their Secret Santa presents have been urged to embrace “sustainable gifting” with top tips from Scotland’s anti-waste agency.

Zero Waste Scotland said Secret Santa gifts are notorious for leading to throwaway items and unnecessary waste, damaging the environment.But they stressed it’s easy for Scots this year to make a change, with a series of “thoughtful” gift ideas that also help the planet, from vintage books to concert tickets.

A large chunk of Scotland’s carbon footprint comes from “over-consumption” - endlessly buying brand new products off the shelves, a habit exacerbated during the festive giving season.Ian Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “This Christmas, we have a chance to rethink how we give gifts and embrace a more sustainable way of celebrating.

Secret Santa doesn’t have to mean wasteful or meaningless presents. "Thoughtful choices - like pre-loved treasures, reusable items, or experiences such as concert tickets – not only show care for the recipient, but also for the planet.” Zero Waste Scotland’s four top tips to be a Secret Santa hero this Christmas, with sustainable gifts to save the day, are:Choose second-hand or “pre-loved” presents: Scots can find unique treasures in second-hand shops or online auction sites, from vintage books to quirky accessories.