By Alec Cartelli

 Not too long ago, ethical gifts were an unusual choice. But this year ethical retail looks like hitting the big time and sales will reach an all time high. Why? The world’s changing as increasing numbers of of us realise that if we would like forthcoming generations to experience contented, productive, comfortable lives like ours, something has to change.

Climatic change makes people more aware of the planet. Globalisation has helped make us more conscious of the human cost of the products we buy, not just the price. We’re more clued up concerning the source of the goods we buy, and the potential damage their production causes to countries, environments, wildlife, people, resources and economies.

Just like any cultural change, it’s gradual. But it is happening. Subsequently shoppers are taking more time and care over the things they purchase. Quality has become more important than quantity. Price is getting less important than source. Slowly but surely, the way we feel about shopping is changing for the better.

There are other signs of change. As the budget deficit bites, saving money is now essential rather than a ‘nice to have’. ‘Make do and mend’ is popular. Knitting, sewing, home baking and grow-your-own are at the top of many people’s list. We’re joining long queues for allotments and private firms are purchasing up land to rent to individuals who want to produce their own food.

Energy is getting more costly and many of us are beginning to think about insulation, alternative energy sources, green tariffs and adding clothing rather than turning the heating up. Austerity? Perhaps. But there’s an optimistic side to consuming less and, when you do consume, doing this responsibly.

Many are getting excited about the tipping point – happens at which more of us are buying ethically than not. Economics sits at the bottom of this dramatic cultural change and when demand exceeds supply, ethical goods are going to be firmly on the map, mainstream.

You can find a substantial range of eco gifts, not to mention a fabulous selection of Fairtrade gifts at Green Tulip, the UKs best online ethical gift shop.

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