The gift giving season is upon us, and the norm is going out and buying a great deal of things for your loved ones. While this is well-intentioned, the level of waste generated by the holiday season can be avoided. Single use wrapping paper, excessive packaging, and excess gifts that end up unused are huge contributors to trash in landfills. For this holiday season, and any others, consider shopping for more sustainable gifts that will not leave as much of a negative imprint on the world.
Sustainable Gifts That Make a Difference
At the end of the day, the best gifts are those that are used and appreciated, not ones that end up forgotten or tossed out. Below are categories of sustainable gifts to consider:
Environmental Impact
Wrapping Paper: While it is very pretty, wrapping paper is a major environmental problem. In the United States alone, approximately 2.6 billion pounds of wrapping paper are thrown away every year. It is often not recyclable because of its embellishments. If wrapping paper has glitter, metallic/shiny finishes, or foil, it is not recyclable or compostable.
Unused Gifts: Many gifts end up being returned, and online shopping increases the number of returns when shopping. Online shopping makes impulse buying much too easy. Oftentimes, returns are put back on shelves, but there are many other occasions where the product is no longer fit for the market and must be thrown away. With sustainability, the best idea is to not create any more pollution, so when buying gifts, if you need to buy something new, make sure it will be used.
Carbon Footprint: Shipping gifts over long distances creates a great deal of greenhouse emissions. Creating these products also requires energy and raw materials, further harming the environment.
Sustainable Gifts
At the end of the day, the best gift is one that will be used and won’t end up in a landfill, so keep in mind who you are giving a gift to.
Eco-Friendly Everyday Items
These are more practical gifts that help develop a more sustainable lifestyle. These are perfect for people who have been expressing interest in becoming less wasteful.
Beeswax Wrap: An alternative to single-use plastic wrap that lasts 6 months to 2 years. They are durable, biodegradable, and come in varying patterns that you can cater to your friends and family this holiday season.
Grocery Bags: There are many cute reusable grocery bags that make wonderful gifts. A set of reusable grocery bags will eliminate the need for plastic bags and add some fun to grocery shopping
Water Filter: Plastic water bottles generate a great deal of waste, so a water filter system or pitcher could be a great addition to a home. This also takes away the inconvenience of having to buy water bottles at the store.
2. Nonmaterial Gifts
Experiential gifts are a great way to show someone you care and not create waste. These are also gifts that can be easily catered to the person in your life. These gifts will develop memories that will last for years to come.
Concert/Movie Tickets: A ticket to see a favorite band, movie, or theater performance is a
Memberships (Museums/Zoos/State Parks): Annual memberships are a great sustainable gift because it provides a year long opportunity for entertainment and getting out of the house. A zoo membership can be a great gift for those with young children.
Classes or Workshops: Cooking, art, or mixology classes are good for encouraging creativity and learning. These classes are not meant for a specific skill set, so gifting classes or workshop works for many.
3. Zero-Waste Products
These are alternatives to single use plastics, which helps us be more mindful. These products also cut down the inconvenience of having to replace certain items so regularly.
Shampoo/Conditioner Bars: The plastic from shampoo and conditioner bottles is single use, so using bars is an eco-friendly alternative. Shampoo/conditioner bars can be customized to each hair type, and it helps to use these since there are less harsh chemicals, helping hair health. These are also travel friendly, which makes this a useful gift so someone who is on the go.
Bamboo Products: Bamboo products come in a variety: utensils, hairbrushes, straws, toothbrushes, and many others. Bamboo is an environmentally friendly product because they are durable and biodegradable. Bamboo also grows quicker than traditional wood, so its harvesting is less destructive and can be better utilized.
Wool Dryer Balls: Wool dryer balls an alternative to dryer sheets, which are non recyclable or compostable. The advantages of dryer balls are that they last much longer, include less harsh chemicals and fragrances, and can decrease the amount of time needed for it to dry.
Tips for Sustainable Gift Giving
Sustainable gift giving is an ongoing practice, not what you buy for one holiday season. By choosing gifts that are eco-friendly, practical, or experience-based, you’re showing your loved ones that you value their happiness while also being mindful of the planet. Small changes, like opting for reusable products or supporting local businesses, can have a lasting impact.
Shop Small and Local: This is a great way to reduce carbon emissions from shipping and connecting with your community. Small businesses often prioritize sustainability and providing fair wages for its employees.
Quality Over Quantity: Well-made, durable items that will be used are markers of a good gift. Many throwaway items are not the only indicator of care.
Alternative Gift Wrapping: Skip single use wrapping and instead use other creative alternatives, like old newspapers, reusable gift bags/boxes, or baskets.
Plan Ahead: Last minute shopping leads to impulse buying, which leads to returning or throwing away unwanted gifts. Planning ahead helps with being able to buy sustainable gifts that align with your values.
As we approach the 2024 holiday season, sustainability should be a part of the festivities. By choosing eco-friendly gifts, supporting small businesses, and embracing non-material options, we can reduce waste, and give gifts that truly matter. Thoughtful choices will create more dear memories while leaving a lighter footprint on the planet.
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