It’s the most wonderful time of the year and that means holiday gift giving. This year, make a purchase that gives to more than just our loved ones. If you are looking for some ideas on how you can keep people and the planet in mind this holiday season, here are eight ways you can make your holiday shopping more ethical.
Tip: Need some gift ideas for family, friends and loved ones? Check out this gift guide and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
#1 Consider B-Corporations
Businesses registered as B Corporations meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability to balance profit and purpose. Companies that belong to the B-Corp community work toward a healthier environment, lower levels of poverty, reduction in inequality, stronger communities and the creation of more high quality jobs with both dignity and purpose. These companies are redefining what it means to do business by working towards a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Ultimately, B-Corps work hard to have a positive impact on their communities, the environment and their employees.
#2 Donate in Someone’s Name
If you are shopping for someone who already has absolutely everything already, consider donating in their name. Pick their favorite charity or organization and give a donation or gift in their name.
#3 Give Gifts that Give Back
During this season of giving, shop products that give back. There are a host of brands and companies that give back. Whether it’s backpacks, glasses, shoes or socks, pick your product and find a brand that supports a mission you support so you can help give back this holiday season.
#4 Go Zero Waste
The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but they are also a time of year when waste is high. (We are looking at you paper wrapping paper and plastic packaging). When it comes to eco-friendly gift giving, look for companies who employ eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Some eco-friendly and sustainable gift ideas include:
- Bamboo kitchen utensil set. Fun Fact: Bamboo is 100% biodegradable.
- Energy saving coffee pot
- Recycled made linens
- Sustainable luggage made from materials like hemp, leather and recycled plastic.
Consider wrapping your holiday gifts in an eco-friendly way. Forgo holiday wrapping paper and instead wrap physical gifts in brown paper bags, maps, newspapers, old calendars or a reusable bag. You can also place gifts in reusable mason jars with a colorful holiday bow or ribbon.
#5 Just Choose One
“Choosing one” may not be an option you necessarily think of, but when it comes to holiday shopping, make a list of all your gifts and find one ethical store that will work for all of your gift giving needs this year. It may sound small, but by choosing one store, you will reduce your carbon footprint by avoiding multiple boxes and shipping materials from placing holiday orders on numerous websites. The holidays have become synonymous with giving family and friends way more gifts than they really need, so by choosing one, well thought out, ethical gift, you can give a gift that is just as loved as a bunch of random gifts.
#6 Look for Fair Trade Labels
The Fair Trade movement is a global initiative that is made up of a diverse network of advocates, businesses, companies, organizations, producers and shoppers who are putting people, the environment and the planet first. This includes fair payment to the farmers and all of the other individuals who create ingredients and products. In addition to fair wages, Fair Trade also ensures child labor isn’t being used at any point in the supply chain.
#7 Purchase from Businesses that Empower Women
This holiday season, look for companies who support women in the workplace. Whether it’s through fair wages or women-owned companies, add some of these options to help empower working women this year.
#8 Shop Organic & Sustainable
100% of certified organic products are non-GMO and grown or made without the use of genetically modified organisms, herbicides, ionizing radiation, pesticides, sewage sludge or synthetic fertilizers. Not only is purchasing organic better for you, it’s also better for our planet. Organic products are healthier because they keep the land and soil safe from harmful pesticides. Organic foods and products have the added bonus of being better for the health of farmers and their families, as it keeps them away from harmful chemicals.
Tip: Still can’t decide what to get some people on your holiday shopping list? Here are some kitchen favorites every home needs. Gift Cards make excellent stocking stuffers or gifts for family, friends, employees or corporate gifts as well!
Start a new holiday tradition this year and begin giving ethical gifts to family, friends, neighbors and loved ones. Happy ethical and sustainable gift giving everyone!
