Eight Eco-friendly Gift Ideas

Christmas is coming up, and gift givers and gift sellers alike are on their toes looking for the perfect item to give their loved ones and friends. This season, why not take the eco-friendly route for your gift choices? Here are some ideas.

1. Used Books

Is the receiver a fan of literature? Not only is buying and giving used books economical, there is something magical about the smell of old books. On lucky days one might even get an original signed copy – which is a great bonus! Conversely there are some stores that sell old books in mint condition. No one would ever know that they are half the price, and you’ll be saving some trees in the process, too!

2. Recycled Home Décor and Home Ware

Eco is the new chic, and a quirky home accessory made from up-cycled materials does not only add character to a room but it makes for a one-of-a-kind find. Recycled bottles for as decorative vases, animal figurines made of newspapers – the possibilities are endless.

3. Eco-bags

Bags could range from your typical grocery store bag or to an evening clutch made from sustainable materials. Bags made of canvas or re-made fabric can jumpstart (or complement) environmentally- conscious shopping habits by eliminating the need for plastic bags. On the other hand, elegant evening clutches or casual day bags made of recycled fabric would be great for the eco-chic fashionista friend.

4. Organic Body and Bath Set

Body wash, lotion, and soap sets are staples in the gift giving scene. Why not take it up a notch by giving away the organic kind? As a gift it need not be picky with its recipient as your aunt, colleague, college classmate, or gym buddy will equally benefit from these finds. Who knows, maybe by introducing them to organic products they might just jump in the eco-bandwagon as well. Mother Nature will be glad.

5. Wooden Toys for Children

Plastic toys take up a majority of the toy products out in the market. Nothing wrong with that per se, but a natural alternative will minimize children’s exposure to chemicals and toxins. Wooden toys may be in the form of blocks, animal figurines, pull-alongs, and board games among other varieties. Also, it’s never too early to introduce environmental consciousness to the little ones.

6. Organic Food Basket

Food baskets are a staple during the holiday season. Usually, these goodies are packed with all sinful delights like junk foods, canned goods, and sweets. For a change, why not pick a basket replete with healthy and organic foods? From fruit jams to homemade pies, sauces to dips, and even storage veggies, these baskets will surely give your kitchen a natural glow.

7. Vegetable Seedlings

For friends and family members with enough land area to spare for backyard vegetable garden, a pack of vegetable seedlings is a thoughtful gift to help them start with their gardening plan. These holiday tokens can be purchased from online outlets as well as organic markets.

8. Green Fashion Apparel

T-shirts and pants from recycled materials like cotton and polyester, and even accesories from reused wood or metal are now being offered by various organic product retailers. These items are guilt-free purchases which are sure to make the gift giver feel like an environmentally-conscious santa.

Joel Chang owns a small crafts business that offers a variety of unique gift ideas and home decors. He’s also into retail business and events management and presently works as the marketing manager at JAF Gifts, a company that sells cheap but unique wedding centerpieces.