Wrap-sody in Green

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Packaging
Online retailers also offer green shipping options. For a minimum $2 donation per order, Gaiam's "Go-Zero" shipping plan, in partnership with the Conservation Fund, donates money to plant trees in the lower Mississippi River Valley to absorb the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (www.gaiam.com, 877-989-6321). VivaTerra offers a change of pace, wrapping gifts in Dupioni silk scarves, a gift in their own right (www.vivaterra.com). Patagonia uses the leftover scraps from its clothing to create reusable holiday gift bags, and their packaging has a high PCW content (www.patagonia.com, 800-638-6464). Other retailers offering substantial PCW recycled content, reclaimed and reusable packaging include Amazon (www.amazon.com) and Rawganique (www.rawganique.com, 877-RAW-HEMP).

Tips and Alternatives

Use natural fiber raffia ribbon in place of synthetic ribbons.

Reusable Klean Kanteen 40-ounce water bottles are perfect packages for Swiss Army knives wrapped in bandanas or organic-cotton t-shirts ($22.95; www.greenfeet.com, 888-562-8873).

A bamboo wooden salad bowl makes a beautiful gift for those who love to cook or entertain (from $11.95; www.greenfeet.com, 888-562-8873), and in keeping with the theme of the gift, include organic cotton napkins (see Clothe Your Table In Organic for sources).

Instead of wasting ribbon on packages, try accenting gifts with reusable festive items, like seasonal cookie cutters, a handmade ornament, or even fresh herbs, which can be included in holiday recipes!

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