Top 5 autumn switches 2020

This article first appeared in our Ethical Shopping issue of My Green Pod Magazine, distributed with the Guardian on 30 October 2020. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox

There’s a sustainable alternative to just about anything, and these five ethical products and services are simple switches that would make a big difference – and could save you some cash along the way.

1. ETHICAL GIFT WRAP

Re-Wrapped gift wrap is completely recyclable. It’s made from 100% recycled post-consumer waste unbleached pulp, and printed with vegetable-based inks.

2. A GIFT THAT GIVES

Looking for a gift that will make a difference? Purchase one acre of habitat and protect it in perpetuity for wildlife through World Land Trust’s Buy an Acre programme.

3. GO ORGANIC

If you’ll be celebrating with a glass of wine over Christmas, choose organic to avoid bad reactions and protect the environment. Check out the selection at Vintage Roots.

4. GREEN ENERGY

As you gear up for winter and cosy evenings in, think about switching to a renewable energy supply from Octopus Energy. You’ll almost certainly save money.

5. ORGANIC LUXURY

Give the gift of organic luxury with Soil Association certified Clean Shampoo and Conditioner – in Golden Citrus or Amber Rose – from organic hair pioneer Tabitha James Kraan.

Top 5 October switches

Heroes of the season

We’re all dreaming of getting away, so here’s some inspiration to keep you going. Stay safe and keep everything crossed for some winter sunshine!

We’ve hand-picked this selection of My Green Pod Heroes to show you that conscious living doesn’t need to mean compromising on quality or luxury.

These superstar products and services are ethical alternatives from companies that are doing things differently. You may not have heard of all these green pearls, as they’re from companies that don’t necessarily spend their profits on mass advertising or negotiating the cut-rate bulk deals that would get them onto supermarket shelves.

We think that if you don’t know the real options, you don’t really get to choose. Click here to view our full range of My Green Pod Hero products and services, in sectors ranging from Money and Energy to Health and Beauty.