Birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations are a fantastic time for giving, however, they are also typically littered with waste. Buying presents, shopping, and gift wrapping can be a hassle and harmful to the environment. Thankfully, there are many ways to make the perfect gift just as sweet as it is sustainable.
How can you give the gift of green?
Here are some simple and sustainable ideas:
Gifts of Experience
Your time is precious, and time spent making memories is even more so! Why not gift an experience? That way, you don't have to worry about the associated material product or wrapping. Try these:
Tickets to a concert, show, or ballet
Cooking class
Hot cocoa and skating
Mini golf or bowling
Indoor archery or axe throwing
Yoga and brunch
Gifts that Support a Cause
This holiday season consider making a donation to a charitable or non-profit organization in honour of an important person or group of people in your life. Choose a cause that is close to your heart or their's. There are many ways to give and support important charitable work; every gift is meaningful, and every dollar helps. Keep it green by opting out of receiving material goods for your donation. Your generous support can have a big impact!
For those wanting to donate to Green Okanagan, visit our Support Us page.
DIY Gifts
Handmade gifts are also sure to satisfy. Even in you're not a savvy Pinterester, there are options you can make typically with household items you already have! Here are a few ideas for simple DIY gifts:
Baked treats
Body scrub (We love this festive cranberry sugar scrub!)
Knitting or crochet
Soap
Upcycled goodies (For inspiration, check out these repurposed teacups!)
Waste-Free Wrapping
OKAY, now that you've chosen your gift of experience or DIY'ed your presents, it's time for some finishing touches. If your gift doesn't require wrapping - even better! You can, however, wrap greenly by using these suggestions:
Reusable tote bag or box
Upcycled cloth
Newspaper
String or twine
Top it off with some greenery from your back yard or outside!
For more DIY fun and ideas, check out our Green Okanagan Pinterest!