How to Stay Green When Gift Giving

If you're an environmentally conscious person, then you'll want to change all aspects of your life to incorporate your new green lifestyle. So, when you give presents, you'll want to select green items for your recipients. You can give great gifts while still reducing your carbon footprint.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Choose organic clothing items. If you want to give clothes as a gift, look for items that come from organic and all natural materials. You can buy organic clothing for men, women and kids on Earth Easy.

2. Buy gifts locally. When you shop at local stores, you're using less gas while also supporting the local economy. Consider looking for gifts at antique stores, consignment shops, farmers' markets and craft fairs.

3. Go green for the kids. You should pick gifts that encourage kids to think about their environment. Look for nature themed books and activities. You can also buy the Eco-Friendly Birdhouse Kit from Edu-Kitting Kids.

4. Donate to a charity on their behalf. You can also discuss forgoing traditional gifts and donating to a worthy charity. Consider a farm sanctuary or having a tree planted in the person's name.

5. Make your gifts. Homemade items crafted from recycled materials will touch your recipient. Consider making your own jewelry, toys, knick knacks and more for the recipient.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also find multiple guides online to provide you with green gift giving ideas. Treehugger offers green gift giving ideas for pet lovers, kids, tech fans and more.
• Don't get too pushy with the green message when shopping for gifts. For example, unless the person asks for it, don't buy "Go Green" t-shirts and buttons.

Resources

• Buy organic clothing from Earth Easy
• Buy the Eco-Friendly Birdhouse Kit from BirdandYard.com
• Look at green gift giving guides on Treehugger

[chickendinner]

on 7/13/2009 If I get a "green" gift, I'll go throw into the middle of the woods. Maybe the trees will enjoy it more.