Eco-Friendly Gifts That Will Make You Smile

More people now think about waste when they buy presents, and that has made eco-friendly gifts much easier to find. If you want to give something good that is also kinder to the planet, here are eco-friendly gifts that people are genuinely happy to receive. Keep the ones you like on your wishlist, so they are easy to find later.

Bamboo cutting boards

Bamboo is a good replacement for old wooden boards. It grows back very fast, which makes it a sustainable material, and the boards are tough and easy to clean. A typical set has three sizes for different jobs in the kitchen, and the boards are light enough to store easily or take on a picnic.

Vegan leather bags

Vegan leather is popular in fashion right now. It looks and feels like leather, and no animals are involved. You can choose a smart tote, a crossbody bag or a backpack. It suits someone who cares about style and about where things come from.

Reusable water bottles

Single-use plastic bottles cause a lot of pollution. A reusable bottle is an easy way to cut down on them. You can get them in stainless steel, glass or BPA-free plastic, so pick the one that fits the person. They are also popular Secret Santa gifts.

Beeswax food wraps

Beeswax wraps replace cling film. They keep food fresh and you can use them again and again. They are made from beeswax, cotton and jojoba oil, and come in cheerful patterns. They are good gifts for someone who likes to cook or bake.

Organic cotton towels

Organic cotton is grown without harsh chemicals, which makes it a greener choice than regular cotton. These eco-friendly towels are also soft and absorbent, and come in many colours and styles. They suit someone who wants to live greener without giving up comfort.

Solar phone charger

For someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, a solar charger is very handy. It charges from the sun, so they can top up their phone wherever there is daylight, even halfway up a mountain. These chargers are light and good for hiking or camping.

Soy wax candles

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum product, which is not great for the environment. Soy wax candles come from renewable soybeans and burn cleaner. They also last longer and come in many scents, which makes them a good pick for someone who likes a cosy evening at home. They are an easy thing to add to your Christmas list.

Reusable coffee cup

Disposable coffee cups add a lot of rubbish to landfill. A reusable cup cuts that waste and keeps drinks hot or cold. They come in glass, ceramic and stainless steel, so choose the one that fits your friend's style.

Of all the eco-friendly gifts here, start with the one the person will use most often, like the water bottle or the coffee cup. Something used every day saves more waste than something that sits in a cupboard.