Sustainable gifts can be scary if you don’t know what to look for, but they’re not hard to find. The benefits of minimizing the impact on our environment go beyond the process of finding an eco-friendly gift along with the gift purchase. It only takes a few minutes to think about your friends’ interests, whether it’s gardening, cooking, sewing, fashion, decorating, or music, you’ll be able to find something that supports sustainable living.
Chances are the next question you have is what is a sustainable gift? Sustainability is the ability to resist. There’s no global definition of a sustainable gift, but you’ll probably know one when you see one.
The gift items you are looking for are products that are natural, organic, handmade, recycled, or promote a sustainable environment. You won’t have to skimp on style, fashion or substance. Paying attention to the label will help you choose a gift that captures the lifestyle you’re trying to support. Examples are green, fair trade, organic gifts, made from recycled and renewable resources, support local artisans, small businesses, cooperatives, cottage industries and fair trade.
Well, now you know the definition of a sustainable gift and what to look for. So where do you find a beast as a sustainable gift? The answer is anywhere and everywhere. You just have to go to the local store and ask. Can you make a fruit basket with only local fruits? Look in the phone book under local art, see who’s creating in your end of town. The Internet is an endless source of sustainability, just type in what product you are looking for and you will probably find it near your home. Quite a few major stores have started putting organic products on the ground, such as Walmart and Target. Don’t forget about antiques or repurposed items. Local boutiques and gift shops will also be able to help you with clothes and bags. If you are creative and have time make your own gift. Cakes and tarts are easy to start with, but when you have time, use whatever sewing or painting skills you may have picked up. Go to the library and find a craft book and then try making something at home.
Ecological thinking is good for giving, good for living, and good for the environment. It’s also a lot of fun. Don’t worry when someone you know is living a sustainable lifestyle. Sustainable gifts are just around the corner.
