But it's not even thanksgiving yet!" Yeah I know, but it never hurts to start planning and purchasing in advance. So, for the sake of planning ahead, I wanted to take this week to recommend some books, resources, games, and useful commodities that make great gifts for Christmas, all while remaining environmentally friendly. We've got things from reusable straws, to sustainably-made shirts, to bracelets that fund the removal of ocean pollution, and much, much more. So, let's take a look at some of the many products you can buy that can help to make your Christmas incredibly merry, all while keeping the impact on the environment minimal.
Books
First, let's talk about a few great reads. One of which I have already read, and the other I've had recommended to me by a few people. Let's talk about the one I've read first:
We Rise: The Earth Guardian's Guide to Building a Movement that Restores the Planet by Xiuhtezcatl Martinez- Long title aside, this was an incredible read. We Rise is filled to the brim with helpful ways that we can reduce our carbon footprint, improve our environmental awareness, and work to create an Earth that's beneficial for all. It's a mix of personal stories, interviews with some great environmentalists, and personal recommendations. In short, a must have for all environmentalists. You can pick it up by clicking here.
Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming- another long titled book, this one I haven't read personally, but have had recommended to me by quite a few people who have. Essentially, it's an all-encompassing, scientifically supported plan for stopping climate change. It lays out EXACTLY how we can solve it, and how we as individuals can help. So, if you're ever in need of a pick-me-up, this is the book for you.
Clothing
Next, let's take a look at a few good wearable items. What's nice about these is that they're all made out of reused, environmentally friendly materials. Plus, the money goes towards funding some great environmental organizations, so it's a win-win!
The 4Ocean Bracelet- I'll likely be releasing a full review of this product next week, but here's the abbreviated version of it: the purchase of a 4Ocean bracelet helps to fund the removal of one pound of ocean waste (and for reference each bracelet is 20 dollars). Not only that, but you're getting a handmade, sustainable, durable, nice looking bracelet to boot. Picking one or more of these up for you or a friend will certainly worth your while.
Ecosia Merch- if you haven't heard of Ecosia before, I wrote an entire post on it a little while ago which you can check out here. Anyway, they just opened their own official store, and after picking up a few of their products, I can confirm they're worth your while. So, if you're looking for a new sweater, sweatshirt, t-shirt, or other article of clothing, you can pick one up by clicking here. They've got lots of great designs, and all the money goes towards funding an incredible organization!
Earth Guardian/World Wildlife Fund Merch- I've grouped these two clothing options together because they're both on the expensive side, but certainly well worth it. Earth Guardian hoodies sell for around $60, while World Wildlife Fund tees sell for $55 apiece. Don't scratch it off the list just yet though: Earth Guardian Hoodies are made out of 80% organic cotton and 20% recycled polyester, and World Wildlife Fund tees are made out of 70% organic bamboo and 30% organic cotton. Plus, all the money donated goes to important environmental endeavors, so it's certainly not being wasted. Plus (I can confirm) both the Earth Guardian hoodies and World Wildlife tees are INSANELY comfortable. Trust me, the price is worth it.
Miscellaneous
And finally, here are a few things that don't necessarily fit into a certain category, but are still worth mentioning.
Nvironmental Reusable Straw- environmentalist or not, reusable straws are a worthy investment (and you can see why by clicking here). And, from my experience, the Nvironmental Reusable Straw is the best out of the bunch. It's a little bit on the expensive side, but it's made out of good quality materials, and works extremely well. Plus, as it comes with it's own case and clip, it's easily portable, and certainly worth a purchase for you or a friend.
Sustainable Wrapping Paper- and finally, if you're purchasing a sustainable gift, you're going to need something sustainable to wrap it in! I suggest wrappily, a company that uses recycled newspaper to make really great looking wrapping paper designs. I'm sure there are plenty other options if this one doesn't quite suit your fancy, but it looks like a great option to me (and one that I'll be trying out this Christmas).
Conclusion
So, those are a few of my recommendations when it comes to purchasing a gift for an environmentalist. And, even if you're not buying a gift for a nature-lover, these recommendations still make great gifts on their own! So, this Christmas, consider picking up an environmentally sustainable gift for that special person in your life. You might have to pay a little bit of extra money, but I can assure you, it'll provide a quality product, and put a smile on the face of whoever you give it to. And, you can rest assured knowing that your gift made a real difference. After all, you don't need to be an environmentalist to care about the environment. All it takes is a little bit of kindness, and isn't that what the Christmas season's all about?
All credit for images used in this post goes to:
https://earth911.com/business-policy/shoppers-searching-green-gifts-season/
http://kristenlindsay.com/diy/6-eco-friendly-gift-wrap-alternatives/
https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781635650679
http://www.gpbnews.org/post/paul-hawken-talks-about-reversing-global-warming-0
https://www.simplemost.com/buy-bracelet-clean-trash-ocean/
https://www.jarnakommunikation.se/blogg/2016/11/soker-du-svar-pa-hur-vi-kan-bidra-till-en-gronare-planet-sok-pa-ecosia/
http://www.recycled-fashion.com/2014/06/silver-faced-world-wildlife-fund-panda.html
https://gearjunkie.com/reusable-foldable-final-straw-raises-1-million-kickstarter
http://maretteflora.com/2017/05/victorias-hawaii-themed-party-a-wrappily-gift-wrap-giveaway.html
https://www.planwallpaper.com/images-christmas
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