In the wake of COP26 it’s clearer than ever before that we need to start becoming more sustainable. Everything we buy has a carbon footprint – but we can try and find the products that cause the least harm to our planet. Incorporating this philosophy into your Christmas gifts can be an excellent place to start. Below, we explore some sustainable gifts to give this Christmas.
Sustainable Gifts
Think about where a gift has come from
First of all, you’ll need to research your gifts and work out where they come from and the sustainability record of the company you’re investing your money in. For instance, if you’re going for the most special Christmas present to surprise your loved one – the arguably not so cheap engagement ring – then you’ll need to consider sustainability. Where does the diamond come from? How was it mined and where? By meticulously researching your ring, you should be able to find something sustainably sourced that dazzles under the Christmas tree!
Handmade gifts
Handmade items can make truly special gifts and they’re often sustainable. You might dabble in a bit of arts and crafts or you might decide to leave the creative bit to the pros and hit your local independent shops. Handmade gifts are always a treat, plus, you might be able to make individual requests to personalise the gift to make it extra special.
Plant-based cookbook
Many people are now looking to move towards more of a plant-based diet to reduce their impact on the planet. And what better way to help than along than with a cookbook? Leaving behind meat meals can be difficult, but a cookbook can help you make creative, tasty dishes.
Recycled cushions
There are companies out there that can create almost anything from recycled materials these days. You can even get vibrant, snug cushions that are made from recycled bottles! It takes a little effort to search for these items, but once you find them, they’ll be worth the hassle.
Wildflower seed set
Bees are crucial to the maintenance of our wild habitats. They help flowers reproduce through the process of pollination. By gifting someone a wildflower seed set you can help them encourage bees into their garden and boost their local ecosystem.
Reusable bottle
All those plastic bottles you buy throughout the year add up. By gifting someone a reusable plastic bottle, they can cut that harmful habit out. Instead, they’ll simply reuse your bottle. They come in a range of different shapes, volumes and colours so there’s a design for everyone.
Gifting a loved one a sustainable item can make for a unique and thoughtful gift. You can follow the advice above and opt for something handmade or recycled or reusable – whether it’s a ring, water bottle or some wildflower seeds!
Photography by Liza Summer
