Sustainable gift guide

Australians spend around $400 million on unwanted Christmas presents and about half of those are novelty items. Major retailers offer specials on novelty gifts prior to Christmas. They rarely last long both in their appeal or wear and tear.

Ask yourself:

  • Does the gift come in minimal or recyclable packaging?
  • Is the gift itself recyclable?
  • Does it have the potential to be reused or repurposed?

Below are some Christmas gift ideas that will be appreciated by your loved ones and the planet.

Gift an experience 

Let’s get back to enjoying the fun stuff we used to take for granted. Why not gift vouchers for the things your loved ones will appreciate such as movies, restaurants and beauty treatments?

Pay a professional for lessons in

  • Golf, tennis, surfing and other sports
  • Musical instruments
  • Drawing, painting, gardening, furniture restoration and other creative workshops

Gift something green

Gift a plant. Outdoor, indoor, a herb garden. It’s the gift that keeps on giving

Gift a donation

For the person who already has everything, spend less on stuff and give to a worthy cause. Donate all or part of what you would spend on a gift to a charity you know your loved one supports.

Gift your time

Your time is more precious than stuff and particularly for your older loved ones, it will be more appreciated.

Gift your time by

  • A big day out on a scenic drive, picnic, trip to a museum
  • A helping hand. Washing cars, mowing lawns, walking dogs
  • Free Babysitting.

Gift what you’re good at

Sewing, painting, carpentry, cooking, flower arranging. Get creative and gift something special.

Gift pre-loved

It doesn’t have to be shiny and new. There are a treasure trove of pre-loved items begging for a new owner in op-shops and Council Buy-Back Centres.  You won’t find REAL retro at the major retailers.

Wrapping your gifts

Where possible, better environmental wrapping options include brown paper,  scarves and t-towels. (Fun fact – op shops often have a fantastic range of scarves in excellent condition)

Hang on to paper wrapping paper, gift boxes and tags and reuse as much as possible.

Cellophane is made from plastic and rarely survives for a second use so look for alternatives.

Get recycling right all year round. Check out our A-Z Recycling & Disposal Guide.

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