According to Finder, Americans spend about $8.3 million yearly on unwanted presents. Christmas is a time for joy and gift-giving, but since many gifts go unopened, this can be wasteful for our planet. These are presents such as clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. Therefore, opting for more sustainable gifts is the way to go. Here’s how you can show affection towards your loved ones by gifting them something valuable and durable.
A Nice, Long-lasting Watch
Instead of looking at your phone to figure out what time it is, a watch can both help you tell the time AND be a functional and fashionable accessory at the same time. However, this isn’t the most sustainable gift since conventional watches with disposable batteries need regular replacements. Instead, gifting them a Solar watch allows them to check the time more sustainably. These watches run on solar power and can be charged using artificial and natural light.
If fully charged, the solar-powered watch can run in the dark for months. These watches also feature stylish designs, combining fashion and sustainability in one product. The battery lasts long and usually only needs replacement after over five years.
Something Homemade
If you are looking for a way to show your appreciation for your partner without spending a ton, consider making something from scratch. For example, you could create a small gift book with coupons for ideas like a free massage to increase physical intimacy or a small getaway. Not only is this a sustainable gift, but it also prioritizes dates and hobbies, ultimately elevating your connection.
When offering a massage coupon, consider including small personal care gifts such as bath salts or body scrubs. This way, you can pamper your loved one.
A More Eco-Friendly Alternative
In 2021, American households generated 51 million tons of plastic waste. Only a fraction of this was recycled, so most trash went to waste. If you want to avoid this, you can help your loved ones by gifting them more eco-friendly alternatives. For example, giving a reusable water bottle, which can last for years, can be a precious gift. They are easy to bring on the go and are found in several fashionable designs.
Your family and friends can embark on a more sustainable journey by finding reusable alternatives. For example, they can replace disposable products such as cotton buds with reusable cotton buds made of eco-friendly materials. Sometimes, these items can be cheap in the thrift store, making them an even more sustainable gift.
Gifting An Experience
One of the most sustainable ways to tackle Christmas gift-giving is by avoiding material things. We often think of gifts as strictly physical things, but a good gift can also come in the form of an experience. By gifting an experience, you avoid buying an unwanted physical gift, but it can also improve your relationship or be more relevant to their interests. An experience doesn’t have to be expensive either. These ideas include a nice picnic, a self-care night or a homemade dinner. If you don’t have the energy to make a homemade experience, you can also opt for gifts like tickets to a comedy show, a concert or movie tickets.
