You don’t have to sacrifice the traditional gifts and treats you enjoy for a sustainable Christmas. We’ve found plenty of exciting presents and alternative options to fill your seasonal stockings.
Natural festive socks
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a good pair of festive socks. Instead of cheap pairs made from polyester or other synthetic materials, choose soft and sumptuous 100% bamboo or cotton socks from an ethical supplier.
Synthetic materials such as acrylic, polyester and polyamide release microplastics into the water supply when washed, and shed microplastics through friction when worn. Choose clothing made from natural materials instead, to be kinder to the environment.
Sustainable skincare products
Many sustainable cosmetics contain natural ingredients, which are better for you and your skin.
From deodorant to luxurious body butter or moisturising face creams, a range of products are available without the plastic waste.
Find small retailers or some high-street brands which prioritise responsibly sourced ingredients, so as not to deplete natural resources.
Bar soap toiletries
It’s time to move away from the gift sets of cheap plastic products. There are ethical brands out there that supply eco-friendly bar soap versions of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, packaged in recyclable cardboard.
Fair compensation for growers and strict environmental protections in manufacturing often raise the cost of these products, making them useful gifts.
Eco-friendly chocolate
While traditional chocolate coins come in recyclable aluminium foil, they’re still often sold in non-recyclable plastic netting. Fortunately, there are ethical chocolatiers who package their goods solely in paper, cardboard, foil, or compostable bioplastic to reduce oil-based plastic use.
In addition, check for responsibly sourced cocoa certificates. These serve as proof that the manufacturer helps minimise environmental damage in growing areas and ensures growers are paid properly. If palm oil is used, it should also be certified as ‘sustainable’.
Heated pillows
Natural microwaveable pillows make for cosy treats on winter evenings. Filled with spelt, rice or different natural fibres, these products won’t add to plastic landfill or leach chemicals into the environment when they reach the end of their useful lives.
Miniature wooden puzzle
For younger children (or adults who need occupying while they wait for dinner) wooden puzzles make a great plastic-free distraction. Instead of pieces of card laminated with a plastic-based picture layer, these pieces are completely natural.
Traditional wooden crayons and colouring book
Colouring books are no longer a pastime for children alone. A set of wooden colouring pencils and a colouring book gives the gift of hours of calming activity for all ages.
Opt for pencil boxes made of recyclable card, or designed to be reused, and avoid shrink-wrapped books.
Reusable shopping bags
It may not sound like the most exciting gift, but with cute designs ranging from smiling plants and animals to repurposed pre-loved saris, reusable shopping bags can be fashionable presents.
A pocket-sized reusable bag can be kept in your coat or backpack, making it easier to remember when heading to the shops. It will help reduce the need for plastic or paper shopping bags that end up in landfill and look stylish to boot.
Reusable cotton pads
The number of cotton pads and face wipes ending up in waterways and landfill is a growing problem. Reusable cotton pads reduce this waste and help reduce the emissions and land space needed to consistently produce cotton for single-use products.
Reusable bamboo straws
Whether adorning a well-deserved hot chocolate or Christmas morning Buck’s Fizz, reusable straws are an elegant yet practical and sustainable Christmas gift.
Sustainable straws are chemical-free and food safe, suitable for hot and cold beverages and completely home compostable.
Bamboo is a regenerative plant that’s naturally anti-microbial, requiring no pesticides and very little room to grow, making it one of the most sustainable resources.
At Foogo green, helping you to have a sustainable Christmas is our wish to you this season. Our biodegradable, eco-friendly tableware supplies provide the perfect solution when serving a responsible yuletide feast for the whole family.
See the full range of reusable, compostable plates, bowls, cutlery, and other dining accessories in our online store.
For more sustainable Christmas ideas, our posts on twelve tips for a plastic-free Christmas and guide for a zero-waste dinner party can help you to plan environmentally conscious festivities.