My sister loves fairy lights. As in, she would live in a fairy land lit only by little twinkly lights forever if she could. Especially if you threw in a unicorn for good measure, preferably delivered by warship. It makes sense, in that case, that she loves Christmas for all its accompanying twinkly decorations. So I knew my opinions had had an effect on someone when, a few years ago, she admitted that the first thing she thought when the Oxford Circus lights were switched on was that it was a waste of electricity.
Oops (for stealing part of her Christmas joy) and yet hurray (for her thinking about the impact of energy use that is essentially only decorative). I am cautious of sounding like Scrooge and a hypocrite at a time of year when joy, generosity and love for others should dominate, but I wonder should I be trying to make my Christmas more responsible, more sustainable? What with all of the cards, wrapping paper, gifts that may end up in the bin or cluttering a dark cupboard, and all the extra travel, that makes for some pretty heavy consumption.
A lot of this I wouldn't dream of giving up - showing someone that you care should never be bumped down the priority list. But it does make me think about the areas I could cut back on. Reuse wrapping paper, public transport or car sharing, asking people what they want rather than buying a gift they'll never use. Eating less food...erm, do I have to do that one? Doesn't the January diet balance it out?! This is a classic example of me being genuinely concerned, but like many people I don't quite know how to tackle the problem and am probably too lazy too.
Oh dear, that's a bit of a downer to start 2013 with. Better start thinking some happy thoughts...x
