In today's world, sustainability has become increasingly important. We'll happily admit no one is perfect (I, for one, forgot my reusable tote bag at the supermarket this week), but there’s definitely a sense that we are all trying to educate ourselves on the issues at hand in order to reduce our impacts. With Christmas on its way, this year we’re feeling more inclined than ever to give consciously in an attempt to alleviate the stigma that Christmas can be a wasteful holiday.
Whether that means consulting your loved ones to ensure you’re purchasing items they really need and love or deciding upon a sustainable option, opting for a mindful gift this year will give an entirely new meaning to the phrase, "It’s the thought that counts.”
With this in mind, we’ve found 19 items that make ideal conscious Christmas gifts, from reusable homeware products that will help reduce the dependence on single-use plastics to clothing and accessories created by sustainably focused brands.
Of course, there are several elements that go into determining whether a product is sustainable or not, spanning the item's entire production line and distribution. While there are likely thousands of brands globally who are making the effort to produce more sustainably, here we've outlined a few homewares items which can help reduce plastic consumption and a few wearable items that utilise recycled materials and new innovative technologies.
Keep scrolling for homewares, clothing and accessories that will make your Christmas gifting a little more conscious this year, and who knows, you might just find something for yourself too.
Chilly's
500ml Stainless Steel Water Bottle
With the ability to keep drinks chilled for up to 24 hours, this BPA-free stainless steel water bottle is the ideal desk companion.
Valuing sustainability, this Mashu bag was created using Pinatex—a leather alternative which transforms cellulose fibres extracted from pineapple leaves into fabric. What's more, its interior was made from recycled polyester, and its handle has come from repurposed wood.
Urban Outfitters
Colourful Stainless Steel Straws
Good for the environment, and they won't start disintegrating after a few sips like the paper ones do.
Everlane
The ReNew Fleece Raglan Sweatshirt
Believe it or not, this sweatshirt was once 32 individual plastic bottles. Everlane used 100% recycled polyester to create this and aims to replace all synthetic materials with renewed materials by 2021.
Kilner
Glass Breakfast Jar & Spoon Set
If this chic glass jar and spoon set doesn't incentivise your friends to meal prep, we don't know what will.
Cookut
Bamboo Cutlery Set
Made from Bamboo, gift this Cookut cutlery set to your co-workers to help reduce your need for plastic knives and forks in the office.
Keep Cup
Cork Brew Reusable 12oz Glass Coffee Cup/Travel Mug
Refill this with your favourite coffee order time and time again, while reducing your need to use single-use coffee cups.
Stasher
Pink Reusable Snack Bag
As the perfect alternative to cling film or aluminium foil, this reusable bag will keep food fresh.
Black + Blum
Stainless Steel Lunch Box
Help your friends and family avoid the chance of a ruined tote bag with this leak-proof stainless steel lunch box.
Frank Green
Regular Ceramic Reusable Cup
Sustainable and stylish, Frank Green allows you to customise your own cup with a range of colours and sizes.
Talk about an evening bag with a difference. Roop handbags are handmade in the UK and are only created using deadstock, remnant or vintage fabrics.
While you wouldn't know to look at it, the outer of this coat is made from 100% Econyl—a fabric created using regenerated fishing nets, fabric scraps and industrial plastic.
E.L.V Denim
The Twin Boyfriend High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
E.L.V Denim prides itself on giving new life to jeans which would otherwise be destined for landfill. And better still, each pair is made responsibly right here in London.
Been London
Colombia Road Crossbody
Made from 100% recycled leather with a recycled polyester lining, this crossbody by Been London is as practical as it is eco-friendly.
Emma Aitchison Jewellery
Swell Ring
Handmade in London, this ring was created using recycled silver sourced within the UK.
While its outer may not be recycled, Arket is proving that it's what on the inside that counts by using 100% recycled down and feathers to fill this puffer.
Mara Hoffman
Gamela belted swimsuit
An ideal gift for those seeking winter sun, this swimsuit is made from 78% Econyl (the same fabric used in the above Burberry coat) which is created from recycled fishing nets and fabric scraps.
Veja
Campo Vegan Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
Very popular amongst the fashion set, Veja is regularly touted as one of the most sustainable sneaker brands in the industry.
Reformation
Hansen Tie-Detailed Recycled Cotton Shirt
According to Reformation's website, "being naked is the #1 most sustainable option. We’re #2." The brand has been focused on sustainability since it's launch in 2009, and this product, in particular, was created using 100% recycled cotton
Next up, see more sustainable brands we love.