Eco-Friendly gift guide
Christmas is the season of giving, joy, and celebration. However, it often comes with a significant increase in household waste, which typically rises by over 25% during the holidays.
Spreading love and joy doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. By making conscious choices, you can embrace the holiday spirit while reducing unnecessary waste. That’s why we’ve created a list of practical tips and meaningful gift ideas that are both sustainable and thoughtful.
Homemade Gifts Over Store-Bought
Making the gifts yourself is the best way to ensure they are eco-friendly and sustainable. Whether you’re an expert crafter or just getting started, there are plenty of creative and thoughtful ideas to try.
If crafting isn’t your strength, consider collecting natural treasures from the forest or beach. These can become decorative mantle pieces or the foundation of a heartfelt art project. Writers can create a jar of mini notes labelled with phrases like “Because I love you” or “Reminders for a rough day.” You can also write personalized vouchers for favours or shared activities.
For seasoned crafters, homemade gifts can take many forms. Crochet or knit a cozy scarf, hat, or gloves. Build simple furniture or unique decorations using wood. Craft jewelry from renewable or spare materials. If cooking is your passion, try making homemade jams, chutneys, or even personal care items like bath bombs or lotions using dried flowers and essential oils.
DIY gifts let you customize presents for each person, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, you’ll reduce unnecessary packaging, making your holiday season more sustainable and meaningful.
Gift meaningful experiences
A thoughtful and eco-friendly gift idea is to give meaningful experiences instead of material presents. Everyone has a friend or family member who’s always wanted to try something new but hasn’t found the time. This could be your opportunity to make it happen.
Know someone who wants to learn a new skill, like a language, instrument, or dance? A gift certificate for a class they’ve been considering to go to can be perfect and very thoughtful. How about adventurous activities like rock climbing, canyoning, or paintball? Booking an event can make their day unforgettable.
If there’s a place they’ve always wanted to visit, plan a trip together. This doesn’t need to be a far-off destination - local gems like Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, or Vancouver Island can create lasting memories.
Concert tickets are another incredible option, especially if their favorite artist is touring soon. The same goes for movie premieres - give tickets to a show they’ve been eagerly waiting for.
For those craving to relax a little, consider an indulgent spa day or massage.
Alternatively, give the gift of time by offering a home cleaning service so they can enjoy moments with family without worrying about chores. Gift certificates are versatile, allowing you to tailor the experience to your loved one’s preferences. And if you join in on their experience, you’ll be giving them the gift of your time, conversation, and presence - the most meaningful gift of all.
Gifts to Inspire an Eco-Friendly Lifestyle
If you’re already embracing a sustainable lifestyle, why not help your friends make the switch, too? Many people want to go green but don’t know where to start. With the right tools, you can make it easier for them to begin their journey.
Eco-friendly essentials like glass containers for storing bulk food, mesh produce bags, and reusable shopping totes are perfect gifts for sustainable shopping. For everyday use, consider beeswax food wraps, glass or metal food containers, and reusable cutlery for lunch breaks. Aluminum water bottles and insulated travel coffee mugs are must-haves for anyone on the go.
For DIY enthusiasts, gift specialty ingredients for homemade soaps, shampoos, or lotions, along with reusable containers to store them.
Already know an eco-friendly pro? Help them upgrade with zero-waste laundry pods or natural laundry detergent that’s gentle on their family and the planet.
Sustainable living is a journey, and giving these tools empowers your loved ones to take the first steps - or go even further. By gifting for an eco-friendly lifestyle, you’re offering something that benefits both them and the planet, making it the gift that keeps on giving.
Support Local Businesses with Thoughtful Gifts
Even if you’ve already picked out the perfect gift, you can still make an eco-friendly choice by shopping locally. Choosing local businesses helps reduce your carbon footprint and supports artisans and small businesses in your community.
Consider gifts like handmade jewelry, art, cards, or toys from local companies or artists. Online platforms like Etsy are excellent for finding unique, handcrafted items while supporting small businesses.
Don’t forget to explore local markets for festive treasures. Visit Granville Island or the Christmas Market in Vancouver, Kensington Market, St. Lawrence Market, the Distillery District Christmas Market in Toronto, or the Farmers Market and Crossroads Market in Calgary. You might even find hidden gems at specialty gift stores or craft general stores near you.
Shopping locally not only makes your gift extra special but also contributes to sustainable practices by cutting down on transportation emissions and packaging waste.
Say No to Plastic: Eco-Friendly Gifts for Kids
Make Christmas magical for the little ones with gifts that are both fun and eco-friendly. Choosing sustainable toys ensures the joy of unwrapping presents without compromising the planet.
Plastic toys dominate the market, but there are excellent alternatives made from wood, metal, and other sustainable materials. Whether it’s cars, trains, dollhouses, or kitchen sets, you can find durable, non-plastic options that children will love.
If you can only find a plastic toy, look for high-quality, long-lasting items. These can be passed down, donated, or sold, ensuring they stay out of landfills for years to come.
Before buying new, explore second-hand stores, garage sales, or flea markets. Many toys are still in great condition and ready for reuse, reducing waste and avoiding plastic packaging. Choosing pre-loved items is a thoughtful way to support a circular economy while delighting the kids.
Eco-Friendly Gift-Giving Made Easy
Spread holiday cheer while caring for the planet with thoughtful, eco-conscious gifts and wrapping ideas. Sustainable packaging is the perfect way to extend your eco-friendly mindset to every part of the holiday season.
Reuse items you already have, like cardboard boxes from online purchases or shoe cartons, to package your presents. Wooden boxes with shredded paper are ideal for wine or bottle gifts, while newspaper makes excellent gift wrap with a touch of nostalgia. For a more festive feel, try craft paper made from recycled materials and decorate it with seasonal designs for a rustic, old-world charm.
Show your friends and family you care about them and the environment. Give them the gift of a clean, eco-friendly home with an AspenClean gift certificate. It's a thoughtful way to help them enjoy more time with loved ones in a toxin-free space - the ultimate present.
Order an AspenClean Gift Certificate today!
Spreading love and joy doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. By making conscious choices, you can embrace the holiday spirit while reducing unnecessary waste. That’s why we’ve created a list of practical tips and meaningful gift ideas that are both sustainable and thoughtful.
Homemade Gifts Over Store-Bought
Making the gifts yourself is the best way to ensure they are eco-friendly and sustainable. Whether you’re an expert crafter or just getting started, there are plenty of creative and thoughtful ideas to try.
If crafting isn’t your strength, consider collecting natural treasures from the forest or beach. These can become decorative mantle pieces or the foundation of a heartfelt art project. Writers can create a jar of mini notes labelled with phrases like “Because I love you” or “Reminders for a rough day.” You can also write personalized vouchers for favours or shared activities.
For seasoned crafters, homemade gifts can take many forms. Crochet or knit a cozy scarf, hat, or gloves. Build simple furniture or unique decorations using wood. Craft jewelry from renewable or spare materials. If cooking is your passion, try making homemade jams, chutneys, or even personal care items like bath bombs or lotions using dried flowers and essential oils.
DIY gifts let you customize presents for each person, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, you’ll reduce unnecessary packaging, making your holiday season more sustainable and meaningful.
Gift meaningful experiences
A thoughtful and eco-friendly gift idea is to give meaningful experiences instead of material presents. Everyone has a friend or family member who’s always wanted to try something new but hasn’t found the time. This could be your opportunity to make it happen.
Know someone who wants to learn a new skill, like a language, instrument, or dance? A gift certificate for a class they’ve been considering to go to can be perfect and very thoughtful. How about adventurous activities like rock climbing, canyoning, or paintball? Booking an event can make their day unforgettable.
If there’s a place they’ve always wanted to visit, plan a trip together. This doesn’t need to be a far-off destination - local gems like Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, or Vancouver Island can create lasting memories.
Concert tickets are another incredible option, especially if their favorite artist is touring soon. The same goes for movie premieres - give tickets to a show they’ve been eagerly waiting for.
For those craving to relax a little, consider an indulgent spa day or massage.
Alternatively, give the gift of time by offering a home cleaning service so they can enjoy moments with family without worrying about chores. Gift certificates are versatile, allowing you to tailor the experience to your loved one’s preferences. And if you join in on their experience, you’ll be giving them the gift of your time, conversation, and presence - the most meaningful gift of all.
Gifts to Inspire an Eco-Friendly Lifestyle
If you’re already embracing a sustainable lifestyle, why not help your friends make the switch, too? Many people want to go green but don’t know where to start. With the right tools, you can make it easier for them to begin their journey.
Eco-friendly essentials like glass containers for storing bulk food, mesh produce bags, and reusable shopping totes are perfect gifts for sustainable shopping. For everyday use, consider beeswax food wraps, glass or metal food containers, and reusable cutlery for lunch breaks. Aluminum water bottles and insulated travel coffee mugs are must-haves for anyone on the go.
For DIY enthusiasts, gift specialty ingredients for homemade soaps, shampoos, or lotions, along with reusable containers to store them.
Already know an eco-friendly pro? Help them upgrade with zero-waste laundry pods or natural laundry detergent that’s gentle on their family and the planet.
Sustainable living is a journey, and giving these tools empowers your loved ones to take the first steps - or go even further. By gifting for an eco-friendly lifestyle, you’re offering something that benefits both them and the planet, making it the gift that keeps on giving.
Support Local Businesses with Thoughtful Gifts
Even if you’ve already picked out the perfect gift, you can still make an eco-friendly choice by shopping locally. Choosing local businesses helps reduce your carbon footprint and supports artisans and small businesses in your community.
Consider gifts like handmade jewelry, art, cards, or toys from local companies or artists. Online platforms like Etsy are excellent for finding unique, handcrafted items while supporting small businesses.
Don’t forget to explore local markets for festive treasures. Visit Granville Island or the Christmas Market in Vancouver, Kensington Market, St. Lawrence Market, the Distillery District Christmas Market in Toronto, or the Farmers Market and Crossroads Market in Calgary. You might even find hidden gems at specialty gift stores or craft general stores near you.
Shopping locally not only makes your gift extra special but also contributes to sustainable practices by cutting down on transportation emissions and packaging waste.
Say No to Plastic: Eco-Friendly Gifts for Kids
Make Christmas magical for the little ones with gifts that are both fun and eco-friendly. Choosing sustainable toys ensures the joy of unwrapping presents without compromising the planet.
Plastic toys dominate the market, but there are excellent alternatives made from wood, metal, and other sustainable materials. Whether it’s cars, trains, dollhouses, or kitchen sets, you can find durable, non-plastic options that children will love.
If you can only find a plastic toy, look for high-quality, long-lasting items. These can be passed down, donated, or sold, ensuring they stay out of landfills for years to come.
Before buying new, explore second-hand stores, garage sales, or flea markets. Many toys are still in great condition and ready for reuse, reducing waste and avoiding plastic packaging. Choosing pre-loved items is a thoughtful way to support a circular economy while delighting the kids.
Eco-Friendly Gift-Giving Made Easy
Spread holiday cheer while caring for the planet with thoughtful, eco-conscious gifts and wrapping ideas. Sustainable packaging is the perfect way to extend your eco-friendly mindset to every part of the holiday season.
Reuse items you already have, like cardboard boxes from online purchases or shoe cartons, to package your presents. Wooden boxes with shredded paper are ideal for wine or bottle gifts, while newspaper makes excellent gift wrap with a touch of nostalgia. For a more festive feel, try craft paper made from recycled materials and decorate it with seasonal designs for a rustic, old-world charm.
Show your friends and family you care about them and the environment. Give them the gift of a clean, eco-friendly home with an AspenClean gift certificate. It's a thoughtful way to help them enjoy more time with loved ones in a toxin-free space - the ultimate present.
Order an AspenClean Gift Certificate today!
