As the festive season approaches in most Western nations, we’re gearing up for the holiday shopping extravaganza—Christmas, Boxing Day, and the inevitable January sales.
Whether you’re on a gift-hunting spree for loved ones or treating yourself to a little indulgence, the big question is: Can we all shop more sustainably this time around?
My approach to shopping, especially when it came to buying gifts, used to be pretty straightforward—I’d quickly run through a mental checklist:
- Will the recipient like it?
- Is it convenient to buy?
- Does it fit within my budget?
Being an eco-conscious shopper wasn’t exactly on my radar. But I’ve transformed!
Instead of chasing convenience or seeking out the best deals, I’m making a conscious effort to prioritize sustainability and ethics in my holiday shopping journey.
In fact, I’ve come to realize that I’m more than willing to invest extra time and money if it means making choices that are good for the environment. It’s a shift in mindset that brings me here today, excited to delve into the realm of conscious consumerism and share not just the ‘what’ but the ‘how’.
So, in this article, join me as I outline 5 Don’ts and 5 Do’s, guiding you through the process of purchasing eco-friendly presents and embracing the role of a conscious consumer.
Don’t discard: give purpose to already-bought gifts
Don’t part ways with the gifts you’ve already snagged for the upcoming holiday season. Whether you dove into early January sales or got a head start on your festive shopping, hang on to those purchases, even if they don’t quite meet eco-friendly standards.
Consider the journey these items took—from concept to creation, involving a complex process and a variety of resources.
The production of any product entails stages, each demanding human, material, and natural resources.
Commutes to work, the creation of materials like paper, aluminium, iron, and copper, plus the utilization of water, fossil fuels, and electricity—all contribute to the product’s environmental footprint.
Discarding these brand-new items prematurely only adds an unnecessary burden on our planet, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
If the thought of gifting non-eco-friendly items doesn’t sit well with you, consider alternatives. Donate them to charities or share the joy by giving them to neighbours or those in need for free.
Remember, one person’s discard could be another’s cherished find.
Don’t buy any shiny packaging
When it comes to gift-giving, the allure of shiny packaging is hard to resist. But before you succumb to the sparkle, take a moment.
That stack of wrapping papers, gift bags, ribbons, bows, tags, and cards from last year? Give them a second life before rushing to buy anything new. Unused items gathering dust on the shelf won‘t bring joy to anyone.
And if you must buy, steer clear of the glittery, sparkly, or shiny options. Shockingly, many types of wrapping paper can’t be recycled due to plastic coatings, foil, or glossy finishes.
In the UK alone, a whopping 300,000 tonnes of card packaging—weighing as much as 2 million reindeer—are generated during the holidays. Unfortunately, over 80% of it ends up in landfills, slowly degrading and harming the environment, including our oceans and marine life.
Opt for recyclable packaging; many products now feature a recyclable sign, including holiday cards and wrapping materials.
But beware of aspirational recycling—remove any tape from used wrapping papers before recycling to avoid doing more harm than good.
Don’t forget, you don’t always need fancy packaging. Get creative!
Use everyday items like newspapers, leaflets, tea towels, jars, tins, reusable bags, and even snack bags to wrap your gifts. Check out the video below for some inspiring ideas!
Don’t buy products with excess packaging
In the world of shopping, less is definitely more!
Buying over-packaged products might seem convenient, but it translates to more layers of waste.
Sure, recycling is an option, but let’s not forget the golden trio of waste management: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The eco-savvy move? Start by refusing to buy goods drowning in unnecessary packaging.
Think about it—do you want to pay for the real deal or for the excessive layers of wrapping?
Imagine if price tags detailed the cost of the product versus the cost of its extravagant packaging. The basic protective layer is necessary, but what about the excess? Not so much.
As conscious consumers, let’s resist the allure of beautiful, extravagant packaging. It’s akin to single-use plastics—once the gifts are unveiled, the packaging is headed straight for the bin, and most of it can’t be recycled.
Let’s be smart shoppers—opt for products that flaunt their substance, not their excess wrapping.
Don’t get greenwashed
When it comes to eco-conscious shopping, beware of the term ‘greenwash‘.
It’s when companies or organiastions toss around misleading statements about their environmental efforts to make their products appear ethical, sustainable, or eco-friendly.
It’s a sneaky game of smoke and mirrors meant to entice unsuspecting customers.
When you’re out shopping, keep an eagle eye on buzzwords that might be laced with greenwashing magic—terms like green, organic, all-natural, eco-friendly, non-toxic, biodegradable, and more. These labels aren’t just descriptions; they’re marketing strategies to sell you more.
Fortunately, some certifications can be trusted to separate the green from the greenwashed. Look out for logos like Certified B Corporation, Fairtrade International, RSPO, FSC, Soil Association (organic), EcoCert, and more.
These certifications aren’t just for show—they involve rigorous third-party audits, holding companies accountable.
If you’re wondering how to verify a company’s green claims without these certifications, fret not. Apps like Good On You, Impact Score, and Beat the MicroBead (fight plastics in cosmetics) are your tech-savvy allies.
They simplify the verification process, providing you with valuable insights into a brand’s environmental practices.
For those who prefer a human touch, pick up the phone and ask the company directly about their sustainability efforts.
The fact: Greenwashing is illegal in the UK. Businesses must comply with the Green Claims Code published by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). If you suspect a company is up to greenwashing shenanigans, don’t hesitate to report it to the CMA.
Don’t get overwhelmed
Ah, the holiday pressure to find that perfect gift—it can be downright stressful, especially during Christmas. The desire to express love and appreciation to our family and friends often adds to the frenzy.
But here’s a gentle reminder: the holiday season is about more than just the perfect present.
It’s a time to bask in the warmth of loved ones, creating memories and cherishing the moments spent together. Keep your feet on the ground and let the true essence of the season guide you.
Consider this: if your family and friends genuinely care about you, they wouldn’t want you to break the bank or stretch yourself thin in pursuit of the ideal gift.
A thoughtful gesture means more to them than the price tag. Plus, choosing sustainable gifts can open the door to a more eco-friendly lifestyle for your loved ones.
Imagine gifting:
- A shampoo soap bar instead of shampoo in plastic bottles
- A shower body brush made of natural fibre brushes instead of plastic
- Wood cookware instead of plastic cookware
- Toys made of wood that are certified by FSC instead of plastic
- Loose tea in non-plastic packaging instead of tea bags full of microplastics
As you present these eco-friendly gifts, share the ‘why‘—explain the importance of avoiding plastics whenever possible. You might be surprised to find that your family and friends share the same environmental concerns.
So, don’t let the gift-hunting chaos overshadow the true joy of the season. Keep it simple, thoughtful, and filled with the spirit of togetherness.
Do plan ahead & shop by eco-values
Planning ahead isn’t just about beating the holiday rush; it’s your secret weapon for curating meaningful and creative gifts.
In the whirlwind of time constraints, convenience often takes the lead, and the essence of thoughtful gifting can be lost.
By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.
Benjamin Franklin
Take a moment to envision the perfect eco-friendly gift. What matters most in your sustainability journey—animal rights, workers’ rights, carbon neutrality, business giving back, or the elimination of plastics?
Reflect on these values, and align your purchases accordingly. Aim for products that prioritize that value. If they happen to embrace other aspects of your eco-values, consider it a delightful bonus!
It’s all about making intentional choices that echo your convictions!
So, dive into your eco-values, plan with purpose, and let your gifts speak volumes about the values you hold dear.
Do buy secondhand
Embrace the thrill of the hunt—buying secondhand, especially from charity shops, is a triple win. It’s a nod to the environment, a pat on your wallet, and a meaningful contribution to a good cause.
My personal treasure trove includes unique clothing and kitchenware finds that breathe character into my space—pieces I’d never stumble upon in mainstream stores.
Here’s the beauty of it: there’s nothing amiss about snagging secondhand gems from charity shops or online thrift stores and turning them into thoughtful gifts.
The quality of secondhand goods today is remarkable—some are practically brand new or gently used. I call them preloved items, each with a story waiting to be continued by a new owner.
Beyond the personal touch, choosing used over new has a ripple effect. It slashes the likelihood of items ending up in landfills and curtails CO2 emissions.
For example: gifting a used cookbook to a friend could cut carbon emissions by one-fifth if more of us opt for preloved books over brand-new ones.
And for the perfect finishing touch, consider grabbing Christmas cards and wrapping paper from charity shops—another way to support charitable endeavours.
Do try DIY gifts
There’s nothing quite like the magic of a DIY gift—it’s the embodiment of personal touch and thoughtfulness.
When you handcraft a present, you’re not just gifting an item; you’re giving someone a piece of your heart. It’s a gesture that says, ‘You’re extra special to me’, leaving behind a sentimental memory.
If the vast world of DIY seems overwhelming, start with something simple and heartwarming—like handmade festive cards. I cherish the ones I’ve received; each is a unique expression of warmth and care.
When venturing into the realm of handmade gifts, consider your strengths.
Are you a master of homemade jams, biscuits, or cakes? Package them up as delightful presents. However, be mindful of taste preferences and allergies, especially when crafting consumable gifts.
If arts and crafts are more your speed—whether it’s knitting, pottery, ceramics, perfume, or jewelry making—create a gift that aligns with your family/friends’ taste in art or decor. Your creation could become a beautiful, personalised addition to their cosy home.
Alternatively, consider crafting a family photo album, a nostalgic treasure, especially for grandparents who appreciate printed photos over digital images.
Do experience gifts – creating lasting memories
Unlock the power of memories with experience gifts—gifts that offer more than just an item, but a profound, lasting experience.
Whether it’s a spa day, theatre tickets, National Trust gift cards, or online class memberships, experience gifts leave an indelible mark.
Research backs what many already feel: people often cherish experience gifts over material ones. Why? Because they foster a stronger social connection, cultivating a memorable relationship between the giver and the recipient.
But here’s a twist—have you ever considered being the creator of an experience gift?
Picture this: offering a personalized photo-shoot session if you’re a photography enthusiast or bringing the spa experience home if you’re skilled in massage therapy. Simple yet meaningful gestures like looking after your friends’ pets during a long holiday can be a cherished experience in itself.
You don’t have to break the bank for experience gifts. Instead, tap into your unique skills to gift your family and friends moments that will be etched in their hearts.
Do have a self-care routine: your fuel for thoughtful giving
In the hustle of gift-giving, self-care may seem unrelated, but it’s your vital weapon for aligning actions with values.
If you’re not kind to yourself, meeting others’ needs and championing sustainability becomes a challenging feat.
Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.
Eleanor Brown
Even if it’s just five or ten minutes a day, carve out time for yourself.
Slow down, savor your favorite cuppa, flip through a few pages of your go-to magazine, stretch your body, meditate, or take a brisk walk around the block for a breath of fresh air.
It’s not just a break; it’s a simple act of kindness to refill your mental and physical energy, leaving you ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for thoughtful and sustainable giving.