Highlands and Islands named Scotland’s thriftiest

Folk living in the Highlands and Islands are the thriftiest gift-givers in Scotland, with more than a third claiming they would buy second-hand gifts for loved ones this Christmas.

This is according to the latest research from Zero Waste Scotland, which shows that four out of five Scots would be happy to receive a pre-loved Christmas gift.

According to the survey, 34 per cent of those living in the Highlands and Islands are likely to buy a second-hand present this Christmas — the highest percentage in Scotland and more than double that of those living in the Central Belt. Furthermore, 25 per cent of folk in the region said they would re-use unwanted gifts by giving them to family and friends.

This Christmas, Zero Waste Scotland is encouraging savvy shoppers to consider sourcing unique gifts that are kinder to the environment — by shopping second-hand.

“We’re urging people to think before they buy brand new this Christmas,” explained Iain Gulland, chief executive of Zero Waste Scotland.

“Buying second-hand means you can save money, give something unique, and help others by supporting good causes.”