Last year we highlighted sustainable tips for the holidays with in-person gatherings in mind. This year we looked at our twelve sustainable tips and gave them an update considering the current state of the world. These sustainable tips are not only good for the holidays but can be used year-round. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate sustainably and safely.
Sustainable Gifts
Gift a Plant
When we think of giving a gift to a loved-one we want it to be special and memorable. What better way to let someone know you care by giving them a plant! A plant will live on, it brightens up a room, and helps reduce indoor pollution.
Donate to a Charity
Donating in honor of someone is a special gift. Especially if you can donate to an organization that is near and dear to the person you are honoring.
On-line Gifts
An on-line gift is an excellent choice for reducing your carbon impact. On-line gifts can be purchased for local services, stores and restaurants. There are variety of choices to help make someone feel special. Here are some examples:
- Gift cards to shop at their favorite store
- Music services
- Books (think indie bookstore)
- On-line learning services
- Restaurants
- Retail memberships
- Movie/ tv streaming services
- Plant a tree
- On-line gym or exercise services
By purchasing an on-line gift you will save time, won’t have to ship packages, and maybe inspire the person receiving the gift to give an on-line gift as well. It’s really a win-win for you and the environment.
Fair Trade Gifts
A fair-trade gift can be a great way to give this holiday season. You may be wondering what kind of fair-trade gifts are out there. There are a variety of fair-trade options that we have found and think make great gifts! Here are some examples along with some resources of where to find them.
Gift Ideas
- Coffee
- Chocolate
- Tea
- Clothing
- Jewelry
- Toys
- Home Décor
Resources
- Fair Trade holiday gifts
- Where to buy Fair Trade chocolate
- 12 Fair Trade coffees
- Fair Trade clothing guide
- Fair Trade Federation gift guide
Holiday Meals
You may be thinking about planning your holiday meal for a smaller more intimate gathering this year. There’s no reason not to celebrate with style! Here are some sustainable tips for the holiday meal:
- Use china for the meal
- Use reusable service-ware
- Choose decorations that are:
- Reusable
- Edible
- Living
- Select sustainable seafood
- Source menu items locally
- Use cloth napkins
- Compost prep food and leftovers
- Recycle
More Sustainable Tips for the Holidays
Here are a few other ideas you may not have thought about for sustainable tips:
- Donate non-perishable foods to a local organization
- Make your gifts
- Wrap your gifts in paper
- For ideas to gather virtually read our Thanksgiving holiday post
These sustainable tips for the holidays are also good tips for other times of the year. Thinking outside of the box can be sustainable, safe, and fun! Happy holidays!
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