Banishing humbug
Unbridled spending, credit card murder, lights blazing and the central heating chuffing away to the early hours — it’s an expensive dose of consumer madness. Still, with the family together and a few days off, there’s every chance to make a fresh start tightening the family budget with intelligent, planet friendly new habits that won’t put a bah-humbug on the fun.
Go Local: The atmosphere at any outdoor produce market at this time of year is second to none, so wrap your mittened hands around a steaming hot chocolate, browse, chat and enjoy. Visit your local farmer’s market for fresh local produce as close to the big day as possible. Not only will it taste fantastic, with a short trip from the field to the plate, but you’ll be supporting neighbouring enterprise. Bring your own bags to cut down on packaging waste and look out for clever little last minute gifts from jars of jam to crafted goods. For a full list of markets where you are staying over Christmas, go to Bord Bia’s website where you’ll find a full run down of markets approved for good practice and top quality goods. www.bordbia.ie.
