There's no getting around it - Christmas is the season of excess! So it's only natural that, at some point, you're going to look around at the single-use wrapping paper, cards and tree, and worry about the environmental impact of the holiday season. Gifting is a great area in which to lighten the load, by supporting local, eco-friendly businesses, which is why, today, we're bringing you our favourite sustainable gift ideas! From gifts handcrafted by local artisans, to pieces that make life a little bit greener, we've got you covered. In fact, we're so smitten with these ethical and eco-friendly buys, this might be our favourite installment in our Christmas gift guide series so far!
But first, a note on our selection process!
We're doing something a little different with our gift guides this year. Every gift we've included is either Irish-made or available to purchase via an independent, Irish-owned business (in many cases, both!) We've done this, first and foremost, because we feel it's more important than ever to buy local, and support Irish businesses and producers where we can. And secondly, because we know many of you are keen to avoid the VAT and duties and extended delivery times associated with buying from a non-EU country. Happy shopping!
Sustainable Gift Ideas for Christmas
1. Ammil earrings, €120, by Inner Island
2. The House of L.E.A.F scarf, €180, by Fresh Cuts
3. The Joy blouse in Blooming Stalkers print, €118, and Serene skirt, in Our Motto print, €118, by Afore After
4. Flat point toe tassel shoe, €205, Nicki Hoyne
5. Spike pendant, €189 in silver, €229 in gold, by Edge Only
6. The Winter Cowl, €87.50, by Miss She's Got Knits
7. Laxo earrings, €105, by Evelyn
8. Cassia phone bag with faux shearling, €85 and €98, Landa Bags
9. Tribal flower robe, €235, by Moon and Mellow
10. Isabel top, from €250, by 31 Chapel Lane
11. Tipa vegan wash bag, €55, Landa Bags
12. Cashmere slouch rib hat, €75, Ekotree Knitwear
13. Eco shaving safety razor gift set, €60, from Designist
14. Riders on the Storm long-sleeved tee, €36, by Grown
15. FÃa 500ml reusable stainless steel bottle, €25 each by Narcissips
16. Dair T-Shirt, €34, by Grown
17. Roll backpack, €79.95, from Fresh Cuts
18. Kids waffle lounge set, €25, by SÃológ
19. Litogami Autogami solar-powered build-charge-play car, €15.99, from the Eco Shack
20. My Little Greenhouse kit, made from 100% recycled materials, €30.99, Jiminy
21. Emperor penguin toy, made from 100% recycled materials, €10.99, Jiminy
22. Janod wooden banjo toy, €26, from Beo Verde
23. Dolls, €24.99 each, from the Eco Shack
24. How to Save your Planet One Object at a Time by Dr. Tara Shine, €22.95, via Dubray books and available at book stores nationwide
25. Citrus blossom dried flower arrangement, €59, New Moon Blooms
26. Abstract porcelain bowl by Adam Frew, €48 each, from Irish Design Shop
27. Trio candle holder, €75, by Kopper Kreation
28. Stuff Happens by Emma Gleeson, €17, via Books Upstairs and available at book stores nationwide
29. John Hanley cashmere throw, €149.45, from Made of Irish
Still looking for the perfect present? You'll surely find it in one of our other Christmas gift guides!