Time for some Real Talk. Plastic is a huge problem. The biggest issue is, that it simply does not biodegrade. Instead, it will break down to smaller and smaller pieces, which eventually become microplastics – those will persist in the environment for hundreds and hundreds of years.
Even worse: microplastics can be ingested by animals, including fish and birds, which can cause harm to their digestive systems – and also, humans have been diagnosed with microplastics recently.
Plastic pollution also has a direct impact on our oceans. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean, causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. In fact, it is estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.
When it comes to gift-giving, it can be easy to default to traditional options, many of which are often made from or wrapped in plastic. But with a little creativity and thought, there are plenty of plastic-free gift ideas that are just as thoughtful and fun.
So, what can we do to reduce our plastic footprint and help the environment? We will go through some plastic free & zero waste gift ideas that will work for any occasion!
1. Eco Friendly Pens
These sustainable, eco-friendly pens are 100% recyclable and part compostable – even comes with 100% eco-friendly packaging. But not only are they environmentally friendly, but they also have a nice feel and touch to them, so the build quality matches regular pens.
2. Reusable stainless steel bottle
Plastic bottles, no more. These trendy steel bottles offer the perfect choice for anyone who wants to reduce their plastic usage while staying hydrated on the go. This bottle is a versatile option, able to store hot or cold drinks, carbonated or still, and even leftovers. Crafted from 3mm thick high-quality white glass.
3. Plastic-free Food Storage
These bamboo wood food containers are perfect for anyone looking to store their food in an eco-friendly and stylish way. Versatile and functional! But it’s also designed with space-saving in mind. The stackable design allows you to organize your kitchen and free up space in your pantry. Plus, it doubles as a coaster or portable cutting board
4. 100% Organic Cotton Ribbed Bath Towels
By choosing these organic cotton ribbed bath towels, you’re making a positive impact on the environment. Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, which not only helps to protect the environment but also the health of the workers who harvest it. Plus, with a 4-pack of these towels, you’ll always have a clean and eco-friendly option on hand when you need it.
5. Natural Beeswax candle
Crafted with 100% pure Texas Beeswax, these candles are free of harmful toxins such as paraffin, soy, and lead, often found in inferior candles. Not only do these candles burn clean, but they also release negative ions when burned, which helps to clean the air in your home.
6. Fabric Heavy Duty Grocery Bags
Looking for an eco-friendly alternative to single-use grocery bags? Made to last, these bags are crafted from top-quality materials with a rigid insert to reinforce and stiffen the sides and bottom. Plus, they won’t fall over in your trunk, keeping your groceries safe and sound on the way home. And best of all, they are plastic-free!
7. Vegan Volumising Shampoo Bar
Ethique offers conscious beauty products without any compromise: plastic-free beauty in a clever little bar. Very high quality products that are good to the planet and the animals!
8. F**k Plastic: 101 Ways to Free Yourself from Plastic
In this book you’ll find 101 little things you as an individual can do to avoid single-use plastics and help save the world. You’ll find sweet and simple ideas like carrying around your own cutlery, getting ice cream in a cone instead of a cup, and buying loose doughnuts or pastries for snacks instead of packaged sweets.
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