I'm about to make your life a lot easier this holiday season if you're looking to give gifts that don't hurt the planet.
This is a tried and true short list of gift ideas that are sure to make someone smile and come from responsible, sustainable companies and small businesses.
Our approach to gift-giving at The Cool Down goes like this:
— Shop high-quality, long-lasting, and non-plastic, when possible
— Buy local, prioritizing small business and thrift finds
— Show your values through your gifts
Let's get to it.
Holiday Cards
This one's simple — recycled paper, responsibly sourced, from a certified B-Corp, and great designs. Highly recommended by at least three TCD staffers (including me).
Food Gifts
Introduce your family and friends to the most delicious "upcycled" food, smarter and healthier cooking oils, yummy eats from a contestant on "The Big Brunch," and responsible small businesses that use packaging that is better for the planet.
Renewal Mill Dessert Collection Variety Pack
The Hungry Gnome (especially the chocolate chip scones)
Gifts for Her
There's something for everyone here, from the most high-performance and innovative makeup to jewelry with intention, and bags that are made with innovation and durability. I'm personally gifting or asking for items on this list this year.
Gifts for Him
I've personally gifted most/all of these to my husband, dad, and brother, and I can vouch for the uniqueness and adoration of each item. You can't go wrong.
One Golden Thread Long Sleeve Raglan
Stocking Stuffers
These small and inexpensive items are a great way to bring low-key sustainability into your gift-giving, and all come personally recommended by me and our TCD team.
Grove Collaborative Wool Dryer Balls
BLAVOR Multi-Use Solar Charger Power Bank
Canary Toothpaste Tablets (mint for adults, watermelon or strawberry + kiwi for kids)
Home
All of these products have a place in my home — and with a range of prices, there's something here for every recipient on your list.
Stojo Collapsible Travel Coffee Cup
Gifts for Babies/Kids
You can't go wrong with any of these special gifts — from baby shoes that will dissolve in boiling water once your little one has outgrown them to high-quality toys and puzzles.
Books
Saving Us: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World by Dr. Katharine Hayhoe
Mothering Earth: The Busy Family's Guide to Saving the Planet by Julia Rockwell
Speed and Scale: An Action Plan for Solving Our Climate Crisis Now by John Doerr
Nature's Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard by Douglas W. Tallamy (Adult Version or Young Adult Version)
You Can't Go Wrong
All of these brands are doing the right thing — and you'll be making a great choice with just about any gift they offer.
Etsy (especially when using the "Zero Waste" and "Eco-Friendly" filters)
Experiences
Forget "stuff" — some of the best gifts can be memorable experiences for you and your family. Our kids loved this magic show. Good family fun!
Want more ideas? Check out more from our team and our partners at Maavee Wellness with a more visual gift guide here. What are your favorite sustainable gifts? We'd love to hear from you at hello@thecooldown.com.
Anna Robertson is the co-founder of The Cool Down and loves discovering and testing new sustainable products.
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