Hey, it happens. You’re (extremely) late in your shopping or you somehow missed somebody’s gift. Or you’re not getting together with friends and family until later in the holiday season and you’re still in need of gift ideas.
Shopping for a friend who seemingly has it all AND is super eco-conscious can be overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time and really want to show your appreciation and love.
While the adage “it’s the thought that counts” carries some truth, giving a meaningful gift still requires careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll discuss how you can escape feeling embarrassed with thoughtful and unique green gifts that will fill them with genuine happiness.
From small items such as personalized trinkets to more significant investments, plenty of ideas will help ensure your gift is memorable and appreciated by any would-be recipient.
Read on to find out what these might be.
A Gift Card From an Eco-Shop
Shopping for a friend who seems to need nothing can be incredibly difficult. Gift cards can be great if you have not learned what they truly need. When choosing a gift card, think about activities they may enjoy, such as training, hiking, camping (or even green glamping), and their favorite restaurant or store.
For more budget-friendly options, consider a prepaid debit card or cash bonus, which will ensure that the gift card is well-utilized. Ensure to include notes inside the (hand-made) envelope to make your present even more special.
Eco-Friendly Shaving Kit
Reducing the environmental impact of shaving kits is incredibly important. By curbing excess waste, such as plastic razors and aerosol shaving cream cans, we can make a real difference in reducing our carbon footprint.
A more environmentally friendly shaving kit typically includes reusable safety razors and plant-based shave soaps instead of aerosol canisters with hidden toxins. Certain sharpeners and razor stands minimize the need for disposable razors, while natural shaving balms help to moisturize the skin without any chemical additives or preservatives.
An eco-friendly or zero-waste shave kit also means fewer items ending up in landfills, which only adds to their sustainability. Making just this one switch with grooming supplies can go a long way toward helping our planet’s fragile ecosystem.
A more environmentally friendly shaving kit can be created by selecting sustainable products that are easily recycled, such as a bamboo razor and plant-based shaving soap. Many natural ingredients that avoid synthetic chemicals and fragrances are also available in shaving options.
To reduce packaging waste, look for refillable versions of popular items such as aftershave or lotion containers. Instead of disposable single-use razors, consider investing in rechargeable or safe razors for a longer-term solution. Small steps towards creating an eco-friendly shaving kit can help decrease product waste and promote sustainability.
This gift is thoughtful and practical, as refusing plastic brings excellent environmental benefits. Eco-friendly razors are made with sustainable materials like stainless steel and often come in reusable packaging or with refillable cartridges.
Sustainable Tech Gadgets
When shopping for someone serious about supporting sustainability, you have to be very selective when buying tech gadgets.
Sustainability has become increasingly important in the tech space. As consumers, we should look for manufacturers who are creating products with a minimal negative impact on the environment and human health.
We can begin by researching the resources and materials the company uses to build its gadgets. Are they sourced from sustainable suppliers? Do these suppliers prioritize environmentally friendly practices? Have third-party certifications been acquired, such as environmental management system certification or eco-labeling?
Additionally, look into whether the company implements energy-efficient production processes and renewable energy sources, as well as rebuilds/recycle their products and packaging components.
Finally, review their customer service policies related to product repair/maintenance and end-of-life recycling programs. With that kind of information in hand, you can make an informed decision regarding which companies have technology solutions supporting a sustainable future.
Eco-Friendly Clothing
Environmentally friendly clothing is the manufacturing and use of sustainable garments that cause less harm to the environment. These items are usually produced without exploiting workers or using destructive substances such as chemicals, pesticides and plastics.
They also often utilize natural resources such as bamboo, hemp and other organic materials, which can be grown to support local economies while leaving a much less detrimental ecological footprint. One of the main advantages of choosing to wear environmentally friendly clothing is that it can positively impact society by lessening the burden placed on our environment by the fashion industry.
It’s also important to note that consuming less is one of the best things we can do for our planet, so choosing sustainable fabrics and fashion pieces helps to reduce excess consumption. The more conscious consumers become about sustainability, the more demand there will be for responsible production practices from manufacturers, ultimately leading to a more eco-friendly future.
If you’re looking for something special, consider getting someone a personalized piece of clothing. Whether it’s an item they wear daily, such as a t-shirt or hat, or something more luxurious like a tailored shirt or sweater, customized clothing will make any person feel appreciated.
An Eco-Experience Day
Planning an eco-friendly outing to surprise a friend can be a great way to show appreciation while becoming more mindful of your environmental impact.
A great starting point is to think of activities your friend would enjoy that involve being outdoors and don’t require a lot of resources. For example, get creative with supplies you have on hand, like making art in the park, having a picnic at the beach using reusable containers, or bringing homemade snacks from home.
Surprising a friend with an eco-friendly outing can be a thoughtful and enjoyable experience that you will both treasure. You can also plan activities that actively benefit the environment, such as going on a walk through the woods, picking up any trash you encounter or volunteering to plant trees at a local park. Whatever activity you choose, taking time to spend time together in nature and give back is sure to make an unforgettable day for your friend.
Start by identifying activities specifically related to environmental awareness, such as kayaking to clean up a nearby lake or beach. You could also choose naturally environmentally friendly activities, like hiking, to observe and appreciate local wildlife or hike in the city for an afternoon without leaving behind a trace.
However, if you decide to spend your time, ensure the materials used are recycled or reusable so that your outing is truly earth-friendly.
That’s a (Recycled) Wrap!
Living sustainably is more important than ever to mitigate climate change’s effects and preserve our planet for future generations. Helping the people we care about understand this urgency and join the movement is essential to creating positive global change.
Not only will they benefit from using renewable energy sources, but they can also feel proud that they are doing their part to make a difference.
Every individual’s small efforts will help us reach more significant goals, so it is critical to power this revolution by encouraging family and friends to join. Let’s spread awareness and motivate each other so that we can make a lasting impact on our environment.
Feature image: Pixabay; Image 1: Kelly Sikkema
