Gift giving is a tradition made especially for the holidays. Without it, I don’t think it will ever get to be so much fun particularly for kids and kids-at-heart. However, gift giving can burn a hole in your pocket too and sadly, most gifts we give end up in attics, forgotten and collecting dust.
Of course, this is not what we have in mind when we bought these gifts and this is not, in any way, eco-friendly as the idea behind “eco-friendliness” is reduce, reuse and recycle. But, it is really possible to give a gift that is eco-friendly too? Yes, it’s possible. Below are some gift ideas that is both eco-friendly and very practical, some of it you may even find inexpensive and very easy on the pocket!
• Bring something edible and festive looking. You’ll never go wrong when it comes to holiday foods especially if the receiver is fond of foods. These things you can easily cook or bake in batches from your own kitchen or if your range of motion limits you, order a couple of them from a nearby bakery and distribute to family and friends. A good wine is most welcomed as well.
• Not too keen on the kitchen but have a foodie pal? Then give them something they’ll be able to use in the kitchen or when serving. Serving dishes are great and would be appreciated greatly or perhaps a good china for afternoon tea. Some old traditions are still fun to do, you know.
• Grow it! Plants must be the best eco-friendly gift this holiday season—trees if there is a place for them on your receiver’s land. For this, you just have to determine your receiver’s level of expertise in gardening then just ask your friendly neighborhood garden center for suggestions. For newbies, get them something that is easily maintained and grows beautifully.
• Water bottles. It’s practical, it can be personalized and best of all, it can be as cheap as can be. By giving water bottles—not the ones that go with bottled water by the way—you are promoting good health practices while staying eco-friendly. Also, it is important for your elderly friends to always stay hydrated so a neat water bottle will come in handy especially when traveling.
• Ecobags. This may sound awfully unromantic but you’ll be surprised to see how ecobags have evolved since its birth few years ago. Now, they are no longer just companions to the grocery stores but they can be your travel buddy as well! There are actually fashionable ones in the market today, some are made with recycled materials too.
