Countdown to Christmas: Sustainable Gift Ideas for a Greener Holiday Season
🎄 We can’t believe we’re saying this, but the countdown to Christmas is on! 🎄
As the decorations in shop windows go up and Michael Bublé starts playing on repeat, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas shopping... but with the hustle and bustle and excitement of the season, it’s easy to overlook the environmental impact of our festivities. From enticing Black Friday sales and mass consumption, to wrapping paper waste and excess packaging, Christmas can be an extremely challenging time for our planet.
This year, why not make it a bit greener by choosing sustainable gifts that show you care for both your loved ones and the environment?
🎅 Here are some of our best eco-friendly gift ideas to inspire you as we count down to Christmas: 🎅
1. Handmade and Local Artisanal Gifts 🎁
Supporting local artisans and small businesses not only helps reduce shipping-related emissions but also encourages the preservation of unique, handmade crafts. Ideas include:
- Locally Made Candles – You can’t go wrong with a handmade candle! Candles from natural waxes like soy or beeswax are eco-friendly, smell amazing, and support small businesses.
- Art Prints or Pottery – Unique, handcrafted items add character to any space and are often made with a lot of care and thought.
- Handmade Jewellery – For that special someone... handmade jewellery, especially when made from sustainably sourced materials, is a wonderful way to give something truly one-of-a-kind.
If you're getting ready to travel on one of our upcoming programs, consider doing your Christmas shopping overseas! Support local artisans and craftspeople by purchasing unique, handmade crafts.
2. Experience-Based Gifts 🎟️
Instead of gifting an item, why not give an experience? Experiences create memories that last a lifetime without adding to the clutter. Plus, they often have a much lower environmental impact. Some ideas include:
- National Park Passes or Outdoor Excursions – Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore locally without accumulating more "stuff."
- Global Citizenship Journeys – Perfect for adventurers looking to travel with purpose next year, the deposit on a Challenges Abroad program would make a great gift (a good gift idea to add to your own Christmas wish list too!).
- Cooking Classes or Safaris – If you know someone that’s already signed up to a Challenges Abroad program, you could enhance their experience by treating them to an activity while they’re overseas (this could also be a good gift to ask for if you’re the one travelling with us... 😉)
Experience-based gifts are personal and memorable, and they often benefit the local economy, making them a fantastic sustainable choice.
3. DIY Gifts for a Personal Touch ✂️
Your own handmade gifts add a personal touch that makes them extra special. Opting for DIY gifts can be very eco-friendly, as they can be created using existing materials or ingredients:
- Baked Goods or Jams – Homemade treats are always a hit, especially when packaged in reusable glass jars or tins.
- Knitted or Crocheted Items – If you have the skill, handmade scarves, hats, or blankets make heartfelt and cozy gifts.
- Personalized Photo Albums or Scrapbooks – Compile your favorite memories with your giftee into a photo book or scrapbook made from recycled materials.
DIY gifts are a beautiful way to show someone you care about them, while reducing the environmental impact of your holiday giving.
4. Zero-Waste Kits 🧴
Zero-waste kits are a great way to introduce eco-friendly habits. They’re practical, thoughtful, and encourage a more sustainable lifestyle:
- Travel Kit – For your friends planning their 2025 adventure, gift a set with a reusable water bottle, a reusable beauty kit and/or a tote bag.
- Skincare Kit – Opt for sustainable skincare products with local organic ingredients, refillable containers and/or recyclable packaging.
- Kitchen Starter Kit – If someone you know has recently moved house, help them make a fresh start with some kitchen essentials like reusable produce bags and containers, a composting kit and/or a home-grown herb kit.
Zero-waste kits are an excellent way to help your loved ones cut down on waste and embrace eco-friendly habits in their daily lives.
5. Eco-Friendly Fashion and Accessories 👚
Fashion is a big part of the holiday gift-giving season, but it’s also one of the most resource-intensive industries. Opt for sustainable fashion and accessories to make a positive impact:
- Ethically Made Clothing – Look for brands that prioritize sustainable materials, fair wages, and transparent practices. Gift your loved ones high-quality basics or unique statement pieces from ethical brands.
- Second-Hand Shopping & Op Shops – There’s no shame in second-hand shopping! Op shops are filled with items (clothes and other items) that are in top condition and looking for a new home.
- Eco-Friendly Jewellery – Many brands now offer pieces made from recycled metals or sustainable sources. A beautiful, consciously made piece of jewellery is a timeless gift.
Giving eco-friendly fashion not only promotes sustainable practices and reduces the number of items going to landfill, but also gives your loved ones a chance to wear or use something they can feel good about.
6. Donations 💰
Not all gifts have to be given for the receiver to use directly. Making a donation in someone’s name is a great way to make them feel special while contributing to a good cause. You could consider:
- Monetary Donations – Choose a charitable organisation whose mission, vision and values align well with your giftee and make a monetary donation in their name.
- Adopt An Animal – Perfect for animal lovers! Adopt their favourite animal under their name and subscribe their details for updates so they can see the positive impact their gift is having all-year round.
The holiday season is all about giving and donations are a great way to show friends and family that you’ve considered their interests and passions, while also giving to a wider community.
7. Wrapping It Up – Sustainably 🎄
While picking sustainable gifts is a fantastic way to have an eco-friendly holiday season, don’t forget about the wrapping! Consider using:
- Reusable Fabric Wraps or Tote Bags – These can double as part of the gift and be reused all year long.
- Recycled Kraft Paper – Simple and elegant, recycled kraft paper is easily recyclable and looks great tied with natural twine.
- Old Magazines or Newspapers – This upcycling option adds a fun, creative look to your wrapping.
- Glass Jars – For small items or edible gifts, glass jars are reusable and stylish.
By wrapping your gifts sustainably, you’re reducing waste and making your presents even more meaningful!
Make This Christmas Count – Sustainably 🎅🌍
As we count down to Christmas, let’s remember that each gift is an opportunity to spread joy and promote sustainability. With a little thought and creativity, we can make the holiday season both memorable and mindful.
Here’s to a greener Christmas for all!