The choices we made as consumers can have a big impact on the planet. Supporting brands that prioritize sustainability is especially important when it comes to gifts. We all know what it's like to receive a gift that you know will end up collecting dust. So instead of contributing to unnecessary waste, give a gift sustainably! There is no shortage of gift ideas that come from companies that practice sustainability or that are practical and waste free. Here are some of our favorites.
Experiences
For close friends and family members, try gifting them an experience rather than an item. This is the ultimate way to give a gift that won’t cause unnecessary individual waste. Tickets to a concert or a play are always staple options. Or try a month of yoga classes or tennis lessons for any loved ones who like to stay active. If it is for a significant other, plan a romantic weekend trip to show them how much you care.
Reusable Water Bottles
This one may seem a bit overdone, but a high-quality sustainable water bottle can actually be more expensive than you may realize. At around $40 for a bottle that will stand the test of time, many people choose to purchase a cheaper option for themselves. Gift your loved ones a water bottle that they won’t have to keep replacing. Because there is nothing sustainable about replacing a reusable plastic bottle every few months.
Wooden Chopping Board
There are tons of sustainable wood products on the market that are not only good for the environment but make gorgeous gifts. Our favorite option is a wooden chopping board made from sustainably grown or recycled wood. These boards look rustic and charming and make a great addition to any kitchen. To round out the gift, add in some practical accessories. A nice butcher’s knife is a great choice for friends that like to cook quality meats. Or add in a cheese knife and some charcuterie staples like mini pickles, olives, or dried salami for a complete gift.
Coffee
If you have any coffee drinkers in your life, there is no better gift than a fresh aromatic bag of coffee beans. The good news is that sustainability is becoming a common practice among many quality coffee brands. Give your loved ones a break from their standard cup of Folgers and gift them an incredible bag of coffee from a brand that preaches sustainability. To finish the gift you can add in some raw sugar or a coffee cup made or raw or recycled materials.
Electric Bikes
If you are looking to make a big-ticket purchase for an active or city dwelling loved one, consider gifting them an electric or hybrid bike. If you have someone who is environmentally conscious and looking to cut down on fuel emissions, an electric bike is a fantastic option.
Gardening Equipment
There is no practice more sustainable than growing your own food! If you have a loved one that wants to start gardening or even if they already have one going, you can’t go wrong with some gardening accessories. Things like planter boxes, new seeds, or tools are all great options. You can even find miniature compost bins so they can start using their own food scraps for fertilizer.
Treats
Who doesn’t like to receive an edible treat as a gift? It is always a great way to ensure that you are not gifting something that your loved one finds unnecessary. To encourage further sustainability, you can use a service to send a gift to your loved one. This way you don’t have to waste fuel on going to the store, picking up the treat, and then driving the treat to wherever it needs to go. Cut out the middleman and let a delivery service surprise your loved one at their door.
Reusable Bento Boxes
We’ve seen these being used all over TikTok to pack perfectly proportioned lunches for both kids and adults. And we honestly can’t get enough of them. For the people in your life who have to pack school or work lunches, gift them one of these adorable reusable bento boxes. They come in a variety of sizes and different inside layouts so there is sure to be one to fit the needs of your loved ones.
Candles
If you are female presenting, then you have most likely been given a candle at some point in your life. But there is a good reason a candle makes such a great gift. Keeping in line with the no clutter gift theme, candles are never something that will go to waste. Look for candles that are made of soy wax and lead-free cotton wicks. The best quality candles will be made with a blend of essential oils and natural ingredients.
Shop Sustainable
If you have ever heard the phrase “vote with your dollar” then you know how important it is to shop sustainably. Make sure you are supporting companies that promote sustainable practices to help increase the demand for responsibly made products.