What are some eco-friendly gift ideas?

Gifting as a form of expressing love dates back to a long history. From being part of occasions and traditions to receiving them at the moments of celebrations and delights, gifting has now become the new normal, which is devoid of specific motives. In today’s time, the space we live in determines sustainability as an essential need and not a want. Since little effort from every individual contributes to a movement towards a safe future, we bring you gift ideas that align with your wiser choices and eco-friendly decisions. 

Gifts with an extra topping of eco-friendliness

1. Meal and online shopping subscriptions 

The market is flooded with restaurant aggregators and online fashion stores where premium subscriptions and coupons can be bought. They serve a major advantage in avoiding visiting different gift shops and having to make choices since the variety is already available at a click. These gifts entertain the idea of the growth of small-scale businesses and startups, giving them a boost to flourish. 

2. Zero waste kits cultivate mindfulness

Zero waste kits are proven to be mindful gifts because they cultivate habits that lead to environmentally friendly decisions. Mostly, they include reusable products, helping replace single-use items and plastic products with alternatives. These kits are durable and work for longer, saving money. 

3. Fashion delivered from waste to showrooms  

The fashion industry is the greatest influencer of all time. Sustainability has become a day-to-day term in our lives, and most fashion influencers are setting trends with waste products upcycled into fashionable products. Although these products might be more expensive than usual, small-scale businesses can be supported through these initiatives. These products appeal to people because they are mostly promoted by their favourite influencers. For example, Angelina Jolie is often seen wearing attire from designer labels that have B-Corp certification, such as Chloé.

4. Recycled crockery at the table 

Crockery is a gift that many people may prefer to exchange for gifts. Recycled crockery is processed into beautiful designs. The use of recycled dinnerware is considered sustainable due to its ability to minimize resource demand, lower energy usage, and redirect trash away from landfills. The reuse of waste ceramics serves to reduce the carbon footprint often associated with traditional methods of production. The selection of recycled dinnerware promotes the principles of a circular economy, stimulates the development of innovative designs, and cultivates awareness about sustainable consumer decisions.

5. Indoor plants – a touch of nature

Indoor plants are the most mindful gifts because of their multipurpose benefits. Other than serving as home decor and enhancing the look and feel of your plant gallery, they increase air quality with a refreshing feel. Nature can be touched through beautiful flowers in combination with well-designed spaces. Furthermore, the capacity to effectively control humidity levels not only improves overall comfort but also contributes to a decrease in energy consumption required for air conditioning purposes.

Related – 5 awesome gifting ideas for environment lovers

6. Home decor and sceneries – the aesthetic appeal

While paintings might not be completely sustainable, digital art and paintings made of upcycled and natural materials can appeal to the idea of eco-friendliness. With the rise of the digital era, digital paintings are increasing and can be projected on walls, saving you from damage like wear and tear, dust, etc. Home decor made by hand and using natural materials can bring aesthetics to someone’s house. One may contribute to the promotion of local artists by selecting and presenting handcrafted objects that are manufactured in a sustainable manner. This practice not only stimulates local economies but also aids in the reduction of the carbon footprint often associated with large-scale manufacturing processes.

7. Eco-friendly tech gadgets – technology at its best

Innovative technology every day is setting a new benchmark in the market for its greater demand and visual appeal. Tech gadgets, such as solar-powered chargers, lights, etc., can also be categorized as gifts. On the other hand, energy and water-saving technologies like portable fridges and water heaters, smart garden sensors, smart water meters, etc. can be useful for daily use and, at the same time, help in cultivating sustainable habits. 

8. Carbon offsetting by sustainable brands 

Another way to gift sustainably is to purchase products from companies that are involved in reducing their carbon footprints. These companies reduce their footprints based on the resources they consume and waste. This process is known as carbon offsetting. You may also work on reducing your personal carbon footprints to help the movement towards a better future.
Some gifts may seem exorbitant, like tech-based gifts, but others, like home decor, etc., are particularly cheap and affordable. Most of the brands are walking the path of sustainability, and many are marking their footprints by reducing carbon emissions, causing the number of sustainable brands to increase. It is particularly convenient to order from sustainable brand stores, as they are also available online. It is time to join your hands in the movement towards a wiser future and embrace sustainability. Each footprint matters.

Prachi Bishnoi

Prachi, an accomplished Chief-Editor at The Sustainable Brands Journal, has 15+ years of experience in Europe, the Middle East, and India, managing 90+ global sustainable brands. She’s a prolific writer in sustainability, contributing to various publications. Prachi’s unwavering passion and expertise make her a recognized authority, driving positive change and inspiring a sustainable future.