Sustainable Christmas Gifting Ideas

Gift giving can often be quite wasteful. Think fancy wrapping paper, plastic toys, courier parcels, cardboard boxes… This Christmas, why not give gifts and plan celebrations that don’t cost the earth. Whether it’s creative eco-conscious traditions or thoughtful sustainable gifts, we’ve written down some ideas to inspire your sustainable holiday season.

Eco-Friendly Gifts

Choose items made from sustainable, biodegradable, or recycled materials. Products crafted from bamboo, organic cotton, or recycled plastic are practical and planet-friendly. Consider things like reusable water bottles, bamboo utensils, or ethically made clothing.

DIY Gifts

Nothing says “I care” like a handmade gift. Create candles, soaps, or baked goods for a personal touch. Knitting or crocheting scarves and blankets or making photo albums from recycled materials are heartfelt options. Try crafting photo frames from reclaimed wood or baking cookies to share festive cheer.

Sustainable Wrapping

Gift wrapping doesn’t have to be wasteful! Try reusable options like fabric wraps (furoshiki), kraft paper, or newspaper. Repurposed jars or tins can hold smaller gifts and double as packaging. Reusable gift bags or scarves double as part of the gift!

Ecotricity staff tip – reuse the paper filling in your courier parcels as gift wrapping.

Potted Plants

A gift that grows! Plants make excellent long-lasting gifts. Native plants, indoor succulents, or potted herbs are perfect for adding a touch of green to any space while also promoting sustainability.

Ecotricity staff tip - Find out what plants you have in your home that are able to be propagated to create new ones for friends/family.

Charity Donations

Make a donation to a charity or environmental cause in someone’s name. It’s a thoughtful way to spread joy and impact.

Minimalist Décor

Avoid buying new decorations each year. Instead, reuse what you have or make your own decorations using natural materials like pinecones, branches, or dried orange slices.

Ecotricity staff tip – get your kids to create decorations out of your (cleaned) rubbish/ recycling.

Secondhand Shopping

Thrift shops and vintage stores are treasure troves for unique, pre-loved items. They’re not only affordable but also reduce demand for new products. It’s sustainable, cost-effective, and meaningful.

Sustainable Christmas Tree

Swap traditional cut trees for potted, native trees that can be replanted after the holidays. You could also craft your own tree using reclaimed wood or branches.

Eco-Conscious Celebrations

Plan a low-waste celebration by adding locally sourced, plant-based meals (https://minimalistbaker.com/) to your Christmas menu, and composting leftovers. Try LED lights for decorations to save energy and limit single-use items during gatherings.

Ecotricity staff tip – make your own Christmas crackers out of toilet paper rolls and packaging paper instead of buying them. Check out a example here. Or buy some sustainable one from Caliwoods here.

Meal Planning

Avoid food waste by planning your meals carefully. Use leftover ingredients creatively, and opt for cooking methods that save energy, like slow cookers or stovetop recipes.

As we embrace the festive season, let's celebrate with a focus on sustainability. A thoughtful and eco-conscious approach to Christmas gifting allows us to spread joy while reducing our impact on the planet. Every small choice can make a big difference! Here’s to a festive season filled with meaningful, sustainable celebrations!