Sustainable Christmas gifts for the eco-conscious people in your life
Sustainability is the word on everyone’s lips right now, and even the consumerism of Christmas won’t change this. Whether it’s the products you’re wearing, the clothes you’re buying, or the food you’re consuming, there’s never been a more urgent time to make the switch to sustainable and save the future of our planet.
While it’s definitely worth exploring your options on the high street where sustainability is becoming an increasingly important requirement, a good starting point is to explore smaller brands who support fair trade practises. From Organic Savanna to OneNine5, these brands are putting the world’s extraordinary amount of waste to good use.
While we’re trying to save the earth, it certainly doesn’t need to cost the earth. There is a common myth that environmentally friendly alternatives come at a high price point but it’s simply not the case. All it requires is a little research which we’ve gone ahead and done for you.
Beat the shopping panic, and last-minute plastic heavy gift sets, with our ultimate eco-conscious gift guide. From Charlotte Tilbury’s refillable lipstick to Floral Street’’s electric rhubarb perfume and Deadwood’s faux leather trousers, we’ve got the presents to please the eco-conscious people in your life. There are trainers for your fitness friends, body polishes for beauty buffs and cookbooks for culinary queens.
Want a sustainable stocking-filler? How about a gift for your girlfriend that will make her and the planet happy? Or a tricky Secret Santa colleague to buy for? Scroll down to shop from GLAMOUR's pick of the best…
Good News Organic High-Top Trainers,
£120£36, Net-A-PorterShoes are one of the hardest pieces in your wardrobe to shop consciously, but thanks to 'Good News' - a London-based trainer label who use only organic or biodegradable uppers and recycled rubber soles - it's easier (and chicer!) than ever.
Floral Street Electric Rhubarb Eau De Parfum, £60, Selfridges
I've never described a perfume as sparkling, but this one is. It will transport whoever smells it to British summertime, even on the snowiest of Christmas days. The best bit? It's vegan, cruelty-free and sustainable.
Face Halo Makeup Remover, £17.95, Beauty Bay
Beauty bloggers swear by Face Halo to remove makeup, as you only need to add water and they can be used up to 200 times. Cheaper than using face wipes, and better for the planet, Face Halo is a great stocking filler for the skincare lover in your life this Christmas.
Charlotte Tilbury Refillable Lipstick, £19, Charlotte Tilbury
No woman can own too many lipsticks, and this beautiful shade will suit most skin tones. Give the gift that keeps on giving because these are refillable.
OneNine5 Wash Bag, Komodo Pink, £49
First up, the conscious credentials: this washbag features vegan leather outers and 100% recycled plastic linings. Plus, all the packaging is biodegradable, recyclable or made from recycled materials. But the gifting perks go further – not only does it look great, it’s deceptively roomy too – easily fitting all of your beauty essentials. We love the clear pouch that clicks in and out with magnets (so no more fumbling with plastic bags at airport security).
Deadwood + NET SUSTAIN Phoenix leather straight-leg pants, £285, Net-A-Porter
This pair of straight leg trousers are at the top of our wishlist. Aside from being incredibly stylish and making a welcome alternative to denim, they are made from supple recycled leather. Win, win.
Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish by Herbivore, £32, Space NK
Winter is fast approaching and the cold weather is already taking its toll on our skin. Forget lathering on layers of moisturiser, an effective exfoliater is essential to shed the dead skin. Enter: Herbivore’s body polish. It’s a miracle worker.
Rosemary + Spearmint Mini Candle, £10, Wolf&Badger
Handcrafted using 100% natural wax and pure essential oils, this invigorating vegan candle is perfect for cosy Winter nights at home. Turn your room into a sweet smelling sanctuary or light it for a long, leisurely bath. Bliss.
Eco Yoga Mat, £40, Sweaty Betty
Now that we’re in another lockdown, we’ll be maintaining our daily yoga practises with Sweaty Betty’s amazing yoga mat that uses a soft eco-friendly TPE fabric to ensure we’re not sliding around.
Chunky gold hoops are a staple accessory, instantly elevating any outfit. Made without nickel, cadmium and lead, this classic style is perfect for guilt-free everyday wear. You can even add individual charms to your hoops to create truly personalised jewellery. We’re sold.
The Zero Waste Cookbook, £19, Free People
Living more sustainably isn’t just about the clothes you wear and the products you use, it’s important to look at the way you eat too. In the Zero Waste Cookbook, you’ll learn how to make your food go the extra mile, from using the husk of a corn to make stock to putting sunflower seeds in bread.
Refillable Scented Candle, £19.90, Rituals
This candle is the perfect present for someone seeking their zen - its Ayurvedic ingredients put out positive and soothing vibes. Rituals are all about caring for your personal well-being as much as they value the well-being of the planet.
Bathroom Set: Lotion + Handwash, £38, Organic Savanna
Organic Savanna: sustainable skincare and bath products made in Africa – 100% of their profits are reinvested in local communities and providing jobs for women
Got a friend who can't stop buying sparkling water, even though its single-use plastic waste is massive? Enter, SodaStream. It'll give the gift of sparkling water at the touch of a button.
