Ethical & Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide 2021

Ah, the season of giving. But what do you give (or put on your own wish list!) when you want to keep ethics and the environment in mind? We've done the research for you. Here are some of our favorite gifts for sustainability lovers.

Everyday sustainable essentials

It's corny but true. Clothing items make practical gifts. Basics can be very nice to receive, especially since ethical alternatives can be more costly. The investment is all worth it though. You'll enjoy these items time and time again. Lara Intimates has an inclusive range of bras from responsibly sourced deadstock fabric. Organic Basics also offers other items like socks, leggings, and basic t-shirts. Or how about investing in a high-quality, timeless sweater like this one from Wunderwerk for your hubby? He'll surely conquer the winter looking sharp. Check out our post with 5 Sustainable Fashion Directories where you can find many more eco-friendly brands.

If you're not quite sure what product or size you should purchase, avoid the fuss and opt for a Fair Fashion Giftcard or e-Gift Card.

Artisan-made products from Mexico

Nothing says Christmas spirit like helping other people. By supporting brands that work with artisans, you make even more people happy with your gift. Of course, we're big fans of giving our shoes and jewelry as presents. But we also think presents like handcrafted home decor items are great to give and receive! We just launched handmade mimbre products, locally made in Michoacán that will make your home look even better.

In our Where to buy CANOs blog post, you can find several stores that sell products from all over the world that support and preserve local traditional skills.

Low-waste gifts

If your friends and family are interested in lowering their environmental impact, now is the time to gift them some handy products that will help them reduce waste. An insulated water bottle and small cutlery set are always handy to have. Nicely designed coffee-to-go cup also make a good present. The women in your life could fall in love with zero-waste, money-saving products like reusable cotton rounds, safety razors, and package-free shampoo bars. Another tip: gift a GuppyFriend washing bag that prevents microplastics from ending up in our oceans.

For the active explorers and sports fanatics

The adventure-seekers in your life will be very happy to receive some new gear from sustainable outdoor brands Patagonia or Vaude. Other cool gifts are weather-proof products like Freitag's unique bags that are made from recycled truck tarp or recycled-polyester raincoats from Maium that are perfect for cycling. Girlfriend Collective and LikeWise Label offer ethically made activewear for women. For those who are searching for more mindfulness in the new year, the yoga mat from closed-loop yoga brand hejhej will be a great delight.

Non-material gifts

Some people practise a minimalist lifestyle. Others feel like they simply don't need any more things in their lives. Luckily, there are endless possibilities for immaterial and ethical gift ideas. Here are some of our favorites.

Homemade specialties like pies and jams are a true treat to receive, but if you're not a star in the kitchen, there are plenty more options. Try to find the Fairtrade, organic version of whatever your loved ones adore. For example, the slave-free chocolate Tony's Chocolonely.

What will stick in your family's memories longer than products, is experiences! Gifting something to do can be a great opportunity to share your love and initiate some quality-time together. For example, you can gift them a high-tea at a cool location, take them on a spa day, or treat them to a cooking class. And you can never go wrong with a gift card for a local restaurant.

Still unsure of what to get? Look into Oxfam's Charity Gift Card, a gift that gives back.

Written by Jessica Teeuw

Ethical & Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide