A simple sustainable gift guide

7 thoughtful gift ideas that are kind to you and the planet

The pressure of Christmas is not something I subscribe too.

Although there are some wonderful upsides to this season, such as allowing time to rest and spend time with loved ones, needless and thoughtless gift giving is certainly not one of them.

Over the years, I’ve honed my gift buying skills, to ensure that this aligns with my values, without adding unnecessary pressure to my budget.

I thought I’d share some sustainable gift ideas with you today, in the hope of simplifying this process, so you can be kind to yourself and the planet.

1. Give to charity

I now ask for charity donations rather than presents from my family. As a minimalist, this cuts out the awkwardness of receiving presents and I don’t need and also gives back to causes that are really important to me. You can give one off donations or set up a subscription service, such as adopting an animal. It really is the best kind of gift.

2. Find an experience

Christmas can become cluttered with lots of things. I find that focusing on experiences is often a really thoughtful way of treating your loved ones, that doesn’t lead to the waste of unwanted presents.

This can be as simple as a gift card to a favourite coffee shop or something a bit fancier, such as a spa day, retreat or theatre ticket. I’m sure whatever you choose will be very much appreciated.

3. Shop second hand

Choosing to source your gifts second hand can be a fantastic way to lower you carbon footprint as well as save you some money.

You can find most things second hand these days. Good options in my experience include children’s toys, books and technology.

Its always worth checking sites like Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree or apps like Depop or Vinted first before buying new. I also pick up things throughout the year if I see them in charity shops e.g., books that people may like.

It can take a little more time, but it’s so worth it when you find the perfect bargain.

4. Try handmade

Handmade gifts are really special to receive. You don’t need to be particularly crafty for this either.

Making your own food or drink gifts can often be a really simple but cost-effective way of gifting during the festive season. For vegan options, I recommend watching Madeline Oliva’s YouTube channel, as she shares some lovely recipes.

If you are particularly pressed for funds, you can create your own gift vouchers for certain services your loved ones will appreciate e.g., offering an evening babysitting.

Alternatively, you can opt to support a small business by purchasing handmade items that can be personalised. Etsy has some great options for this.

5. Chose consumables

Gifting items that can be consumed reduces the clutter and risk that items will end up in landfill.

If you are looking at food or drink, try and chose items that are more eco-friendly e.g., vegan, organic, recyclable packaging etc. Other options include beauty products or homeware e.g., candles, incense etc.

Candles are one of my preferred items to give and receive. Some of my favourite Scottish candle brands are Cairn Candles, The Coorie Company and Gold Moss.

6. Eco clothing

Clothing is a popular gift idea. Who doesn’t want to receive socks in their stocking?!

I’d recommend looking for brands that are more eco-conscious. These often have their values and commitments clearly stated on their websites and sell products that have been sustainably and ethically sourced.

Some of my favourite UK options are the Thought clothing sock gift boxes, ethical knitwear from Finisterre, or cosy PJs from Seasalt.

If your worried about getting the right item, you can always buy people gift cards to favourite sustainable stores instead.

7. Sustainable lifestyle products

Buying gifts to help your loved ones live most sustainably can be a fantastic option.

There are wide range or reusable items that you can buy, that reduce the need for single use materials. These include food and drink carriers, reusable tote bags and cleaning products such as glass bottles for cleaners and fabric cloths.

You could also buy them a subscription to a local organic fruit and veg box, gift them lessons on vegan cooking or buying books (ideally second hand) on sustainable living.

The options are endless!

8. Bonus idea - chose not to gift

With living costs skyrocketing, please don’t put yourself under pressure to buy multiple gifts, even if this is what you have done in previous years.

Many of us are in the same boat, so suggesting that you reduce your gifting list this year may be a very welcome suggestion to your loved ones.

Supplement this with spending time with them instead, even if this is a simple cup of tea at home or enjoying a Christmas movie. This is often far more fulfilling anyway.

Please share any of your favourite sustainable gift ideas below. I’m sure we’d all love to read them.

Until next week

Molly xx

---

Watch my weekly vlogs by subscribing to my YouTube channel

DISCLAIMER - This post may include affiliate links