35+ Unique Sustainable Christmas Gifts That’ll Even Make Santa Jealous

‘Tis the season to be generous and, if sustainable Christmas gifts are something you’re looking for, I’ve got you! This is a list of things that I love and would happily oblige if someone gave to me!

I know holiday shopping isn’t for everyone. That’s why I created this list! And if you have an earth-friendly friend or family member, shopping might be EXTRA NOT for you!

BUT, with this list, they’ll especially love your attention to sustainability.

As someone who’s pretty much thinking of how to recycle and upcycle everything, I tend to annoy most people and, by most people, I mean my husband. But it warms my heart anytime he tries to adapt to some of my more rigid environmental practices.

Here are some ways you can do the same…but in a fun way!

By the time you’re done reading, the only thing you’ll hopefully be annoyed with is how to choose one of these awesome presents! You’ll have a whole slew of sustainable Christmas gifts to consider…some are even free!

This post is all about sustainable Christmas gifts!

Best Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Beauty Buff

Whether you’re buying one main gift or would like to put together a little bundle of fun things, here are some ideas for the beauties in your life!

1. Ulike Laser At-Home Hair Removal

If you know them well and you know they can’t get enough of those beauty reels they keep scrolling, this one’s for them!

I literally got sick and tired of shaving and those disposable razors I just couldn’t seem to quit. So, I bought the Ulike IPL hair removal tool. Currently, I’m still trying it out, but…

Here’s What i think so Far:

• It’s easy to set up.
• It doesn’t hurt! There is a cooling element that makes each treatment feel pain-free.
• BUT, for those with darker skin tones or lighter hair, this model might not be the best, which is definitely not fair. I’m currently searching for an option that works for every skin and hair type, so stay tuned!
• It’s not cheap, but it’s MUCH cheaper than multiple sessions at the aesthetician!
• It takes some commitment to do on a regular basis, but you (or the fabulous person receiving this!) can do it!

How to use:

• It comes with a razor to use before your treatments AND these cute, lil’, foldable safety glasses.
• It’s VERY important to wear these glasses to protect your pretty eyes! Also, I keep my dog out of the room when I do this. I don’t want her eyes to be harmed from the bright flashes! So, remember to use in a place where kids and pets aren’t moseying about.
• It seems to work pretty well so far and has a setting that is continuous application as long as it’s flush to your skin. I did similar treatments at a dermatologist and IPL does work for a lot of skin types, but seems to do best with ghostly skin like mine.

This beauty tool is perfect for someone who wants to save lots of time in the long run and be done with disposable razors forever!

Check out the Ulike Air 3 IPL Hair Removal Device here.

2. Axiology

Zero-waste, plastic-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, Axiology Balmies, Tinted Dews, and Multi-Stick Color Creams are so easy to apply. And they’re beautiful!

These makeup sticks are housed in recycled PAPER. Which means NO PLASTIC!

Pop a few in your girl’s stocking or go all-out with the Balmie Super Fan Pack.

Guys can use these products, too! The Vegan Lip Balm is so creamy and comes in Peppermint or Unscented. Peppermint is my favorite because it’s just a tiny hint of peppermint and it doesn’t burn off your lips like some balms tend to do.

The Starter Bundle is the perfect mix to give to your makeup fan! It includes:

Medium Shape Stick
Color Cream Multi-Stick – LOYALTY
Tinted Dew Multi-Stick – THE GOODNESS
Vegan Lip Balm – Unscented
Balmie Single – NUDE PLUM
Balmie Highlighter – CHAMPAGNE
Makeup Bag

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3. The Original Makeup Eraser

The Original Makeup Eraser gets really good reviews and I’ve been wanting to try this myself!

These reusable cloths remove makeup just by adding warm water. Okay, that’s genius!

They come in lots of cute colors. I’m currently eyeing this Coastal Cowgirl set!

4. Blue Q Cosmetic Bags, Totes & Coin Purses

Blue Q is a brand for your quirky friend who has a great sense of humor. This company also respects the environment and animals and has a lot to say about that!

All Blue Q bags are made from 95% post-consumer recycled material. What is this material, you ask? Old rice sacks that have been rescued from a trip to the landfill and transformed into things like THIS:

AND THIS:

Their zipper pouches can be used for all sorts of odds and ends. I like the coin purses to hold my lipstick!

Not only are their zipper pouches and totes so fun, Blue Q makes more stuff like lip balms, oven mitts, coin purses, bubble bath, tea towels, and socks…and they manage to make each and every one charming and/or hilarious.

OH! And Swedish Dishcloths! If you haven’t tried these, please do because they’re amazing. They work like reusable paper towels. You can wash them in the dishwasher or sanitize in the microwave. They are PERFECT for the eco-buffs in your world.

Language warning: Some of their writing has a few words you may or may not like, however, I tend to love their attitude quite a lot.

5. Matt & Nat ABBI MINI Vegan Cosmetic Bag – Purity

This darling cosmetic bag is cruelty-free and comes in a variety of colors. While you’re checking out this piece on Matt & Nat, make sure to view some of their other vegan gifts.

Chic Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Fashion Queen

Do you have a princess on your hands? Good, because that’s one of my favorite types to shop for! Let us begin with purses…

6. Pixie Mood Vegan Leather Bags

If you know someone who LOVES purses, get them a Pixie Mood bag! Vegan leather, which uses zero animal leather, is the compassionate choice for the fashionista who loves the fur babies, too.

The materials they use are SO SOFT and their bags are classically modern and come in the freshest colors. This is my go-to vegan leather purse brand!

I have these two bags and I highly recommend:

I also appreciate the reasonable price points.

A few more MAJOR things: Pixie Mood is climate positive because of their participation in carbon offsetting with Terrapass. They also use recycled materials and eco-friendly shipping materials.

Santa, head over to Pixie Mood stat!

7. Melie Bianco Vegan Leather Bags

Melie Bianco makes super stylish vegan leather bags and you can find many of their styles at Anthropologie.

They also make some pretty snazzy faux fur bags. These are perfect to complete that cozy winter look!

8. Vegan Leather Trench Coat

This faux leather trench coat at Nordstrom is a classic MUST. It comes in Distressed Rose Smoke or Spring Sage. But I think I’m quickly falling in love with the Distressed Rose. Just a hint of pink! So lovely!

9. Alice + Olivia Carter Vegan Mini Skirt

Alice + Olivia is a brand that stars like Michelle Obama, Meghan Markle, and Beyoncé love, so if you love it, too, you wouldn’t be wrong for it!

I want to pull off this sapphire pleated look so bad. Not sure if I can or not, but I bet you know someone who can!

I love deep blue hues for the holiday season. This would be a perfect party skirt! Just sayin’.

10. Immaculate Vegan Adele Patent Vegan Leather Knee High Boots in Burgundy

Um, YES, please! These gorgeous vegan patent leather boots remind me of a pair of burgundy red boots I once had that made me extremely happy every time I wore them.

And it would bring me joy to see someone else find these cuties under their tree this year.

Immaculate Vegan is a fashion and beauty company in the UK that was created to make apparel that’s sustainable, ethical, and vegan. Please check out their website for more amazing and unique gift options!

Cozy Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Hostess

The hostess (or host!) loves pretty things, am I right? Spoil the person who spoils others with their warmth and hospitality!

11. Matt & Nat Vegan Candles

What’s a party without ambient lighting? Bring on the candles and fairy lights, is what I say!

Matt & Nat’s vegan candles have the cutest names! I particularly love “Good Girl Gone Bad.” WANT.

12. Starfish Project Jute Trivet

Starfish Project is top on my list for jewelry gifts and now they have home décor! This cute, jute trivet is sophisticated and natural.

And did you know jute is compostable? It is, my friends. It is.

When you buy from Starfish Project, you’re supporting women who have overcome difficult circumstances and honoring new, brighter chapters in their lives.

13. Recycled Glass Carafe

Yes, this cool carafe is made out of recycled glass! I think it’s quite sassy and someone needs this!

14. Recycled Glass Carafe Set by Colombian Artisans

And this carafe set is made from recycled mouthblown glass from skilled Colombian artisans! I don’t know how they do it, but it sounds very interesting!

15. Made Trade Petal Throw

This Petal Throw is gorgeous! But if you don’t want to shell out all the bucks, consider a family quilt, if you have one. My grandmother made such amazing handmade quilts that I would love to gift to my nephew and niece one day.

If you have an old soul in the younger generation, consider passing down a family quilt to them, along with a story of the person who made it.

16. Made Trade Recycled Copper Platter

This Recycled Copper Platter comes in three different sizes and it’s just stunning! You KNOW you know someone who’d like the whole set!

17. Cozy Pajamas

Your hostess will be tired from hosting, so get her something she can relax in after a full day of prepping, welcoming, and having it all together!

Lands’ End is an environmentally-conscious company who makes comfy and cute pajama sets at feasible price points. These pajamas make me look forward to a long, winter’s night!

• Cashtouch faux cashmere cozy robe in Patina Blue
• 3-piece pajama set in Ivory
• 4-piece pajama set in Deep Forest Trees

Handsome Sustainable Christmas Gifts for Men

Men are so tough to shop for! Strangely enough, Renaissance man Jon is pretty easy to gift because, like his name suggests, he has MANY hobbies and interests. Golf, guitar, gaming, football, movies, fine whiskey, and cooking…he’s peculiarly helpful for me to shop for. Plus, he loves clothes, shoes, and hats.

Who is this guy and why isn’t he impossible like every other guy in my family?!

I spoke too soon.
When I asked Jon to pick out some things he liked,
he suddenly became very persnickety.

Yet, he approves of everything on this list!

18. Yeti Tumbler

I asked Jon, who has become quite the tumbler collector, his tumbler preferences and he said this Yeti tumbler was a winner.

I also love the Swig brand and they have cute portable wine glasses for that girls’ trip, too!

Fill with wrapper-free Christmas candy or a glass mini whiskey or champagne bottle and you’ve got a happy Christmas gift!

19. Dopp Kit

Guys like their lotions and potions, too! This Goodfellow & Co toiletry bag is debonair, just like your guy! Made of sturdy grey fabric and brown vegan leather, it comes with a carry handle and total class.

These Lochtree Dopp Kits are made from reclaimed sailboat sails and boat covers from coastal Maine. Perfect for travel and all those toiletries, these bags are also handsome and roomy.

They measure 10″ L x 5″ W x 5″ H and are machine washable.

Other uses for toiletry kits:

• Car kit for essentials like a flashlight, tire pressure gauge, first aid kit, extra phone charger, hand sanitizer
• On-the-go tools like screwdrivers, mini hammer, and Swiss Army knife
• Go-bag for extra golf balls, tees, towel, glove, and rangefinder
• Gear bag for guitar picks, strings, tuner, capo, cords, cables, and songwriting notebook

20. Slim Vegan Leather Cardholder in Black & Red

This slim card wallet looks cool and a bit rockstar with the bold two-toned design. It’s compact, so it could fit in a front jeans pocket or blazer pocket.

21. Blue Q Socks

There must be a dapper dude in your life who’d look superb in these Blue Q socks! Most of them come with funny quotes or statements that feel just like that special guy.

Here are some of their quotes:

“Love me a good poop.”

“Golf socks. Swing your thing. Let it fly. It’s all mental.”

“Selective Hearing Specialist”

“Pretty Decent Boyfriend”

“Ain’t no bad joke like a dad joke.”

“Everything is annoying.”

“Still recovering from middle school.”

There are some other super funny ones, but with a smidgen of cussing, so I’ll let you check those out here!

The Bee’s Knees Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Nature Person

You know who I’m talking about. Every sunset is special. Every star is a gift. (I’m talking about me…but also your person!)

The person who loves nature is a sensitive soul who deserves the best sustainable Christmas gifts!

22. Plants

Maybe it’s an easy houseplant or a gift card to their favorite nursery. Maybe it’s a tree planted in their name. If they love being outside and watching the wonder of nature, plants are a safe bet!

23. Gardening Tools & Decorations

My sweetest neighbor ever will not only bring me beautiful plants, but she drops off pruners and garden gloves and sometimes jewelry! For a neighbor or friend like this who’s a gardening pro, return the favor with a few useful gifts:

• Bird bath, birdhouse, or bird feeder
• Seed packets: You could do a floral theme or herb garden theme!
• Pruning shears, spade, or mini rake: I have a kids’ rake like this one and a few others like these and they are surprisingly useful! I use them to get leaves out of shrubs and small places!
• Solar hydrangea: I was given one of these about three or four years ago and it still glows every night. It’s so charming. I love it and I think a flower aficionado would love it, too!
• Twinkle lights, fairy lights, and sparkling tabletop lights

• Handheld weed tool: This is an AWESOME little tool. I actually bought one to help me trim the English ivy growing on my brick. If you know anything about English ivy, it grips like mad! But this little tool helps me to pull back the growth and trim it down. On my list of accidental fabulous finds, this is one of them!
• Garden gloves: This pair looks adorable, plus I love the long sleeves. These would be great for someone like me who’s always running into something like poison ivy and then ending up at the doctor!
• Pretty planter: There are so many out there! I’ll add a few below that have me all gaga.

Unique Sustainable Christmas Gifts for Someone Who Doesn’t Want Anything

Okay, we’re kind of going against their wishes by getting them something, but they really don’t know what they’re missing! But we’ll show them! For someone who has everything or is a total Scrooge, here are a few fun suggestions.

24. Terrapass Carbon Offsets

So you have that one person who’s like, “Don’t get me anything! I have everything I need!” Okay, I really admire this, plus just by not wanting any material possessions, this person is doing the planet some good.

BUT, since you want to show some sort of appreciation, gift them with a purchase of carbon offsets.

By doing this, you’re helping to restore precious resources within our earth through major ongoing and essential environmental projects that support rainforests and our water systems.

Attach a note to your carbon offset gift and say something like this:

“Because of your beautiful presence in my life, you’ve inspired me to give back to our planet and it’s all in your honor.”

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25. Donation to Their Favorite Charity

There’s no shortage of people and animals who are in need. Pick an organization that means something to your loved one! If they love dogs or cats, donate to their local shelter or rescue. If they’re an environmentalist (’cause, like DUH, this whole post!), you could give to an organization helping slow climate change.

The only things my dad ever wants
are Goldtoe socks, SAS shoes,
and a car wash gift certificate.
And, in the past several years,
he’s requested nothing!

So, on one of his birthdays
I donated to Rainforest Foundation.
He loved it
and the earth got a little love, too.

26. Plan an Outing for the Two of You

Giving someone an experience is a gift that they can keep in their heart for always.

Here are some experience ideas:

• Get tickets for a concert they’d love.
• Go to the ballet, symphony, opera, or a musical.
• Take a trip together.
• Go camping.
• Have a morning at the museum and a nice lunch afterwards.
• Treat them to a shopping spree and get them something special that they pick out.
• Spend a weekend in a fancy hotel.
• Do a fun photoshoot.
• Volunteer together at a pet shelter.
• Go to a sporting event.
• Try a wine tasting at a new place, then have dinner.

27. Support Something Near and Dear to Their Heart

You can support your friend or family member in so many ways and that’s a huge gift!

• Support their small business: Do a girls’ trip to their restaurant or boutique. Refer their company to others who might need their services. Or if they own an online business like a BLOG (HINTY HINT), read their posts, add heartfelt comments, share with friends, heart their reels, subscribe to their newsletter, and ask them other ways you can be a supportive pal.
• Offer to be their volunteer buddy for a month or two. One of my friends works with a community group that picks up trash off the streets and surrounding areas. Maybe I should join him the next few times!
• Make a coupon book of errands and chores you’d like to help them with. This could be especially nice if they’ve had a tough year.

Thoughtful Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Lifelong Learner

This is the reader, the philosopher, the tinkerer. This is the curious soul who thrives on knowledge and education. Enjoy these ideas for them!

28. Audible Subscription

If they don’t have an audio book subscription yet, this is a great gift for readers that like to store their stories digitally! Don’t get me wrong, I still love the feel of holding a book and looking at them on my bookshelves. But this is a wonderful option for road trips, taking a walk, and doing errands around the house.

29. Masterclass Subscription

The Masterclass videos have a PLETHORA of amazing speakers: novelists, musicians, actors, teachers, designers…you name it!

I’ve seen a lot of these videos through research sessions at work and I’ve enjoyed every one. Here are some that really stayed with me:

• Margaret Atwood
• Judy Blume
• RuPaul
• Dr. Cornel West
• Steve Martin
• Robin Roberts

30. Ancestry.com Membership

Learning about your family tree is fascinating. Giving an Ancestry.com membership to your friend or relative will start them on an exciting adventure of history and discovery.

My mom did this and found ancestors from Scotland, Ireland, and England, which explains my obsession with wanting to be from the UK…which I guess I sort of am!

31. Family Heirloom

Nothing’s probably more sustainable than handing down a beloved family treasure. Maybe your daughter is getting old enough to appreciate the brooch your grandmother gave you. Maybe your nephew would be interested in your comic book collection. Perhaps your friend who loves to antique would like your vintage teapot your aunt cherished. There are so many wonderful things with wonderful stories you could pass down!

Ideas for family heirloom gifts

• Grandma’s china set
• A ring, necklace, or earrings that have special meaning
• Your granddad’s coin collection
• A family photo album of different generations
• A vintage toy
• The typewriter your great-grandpa wrote your grandmother love letters on
• A painting your brother created
• Framed photography from a meaningful place
• Your wedding veil
• Christmas ornament from your childhood
• Your first vinyl record or cassette
• Your dad’s compass
• Antique furniture, like a unique chair or cabinet
• The guitar your uncle used to play at family gatherings
• A jewelry box given to you by a dear friend

Choose something sentimental that you’re also willing to part with so that someone else you love can share in the story, too.

One of my good friends knew that I loved antiques,
so when she had a bunch of her mom’s keepsakes to sort,
she asked me if I’d like her vintage punch bowl and cups.

I said yes and my friend included a recipe book on punch recipes!
I feel honored to be taking care of something special
that belonged to my friend’s family.

I use the gorgeous bowl for fresh fruit
and have a tiny plant in one of the punch cups.

Sweet Sustainable Christmas Gifts for Someone Having a Tough Year

Not everyone will be having a cheery Christmas or happy holiday. And actually, this will be a tough season for many people. Show up for your family and friends by offering things like these…

32. Good Deeds

• Pet sit
• Babysit
• Mow their lawn or mulch their garden beds (I wish someone would magically mulch my garden beds!).
• Do their grocery shopping.
• Bring in their trashcans.
• Send dinner over to their home.
• Help them pack or unpack.
• If you’re a designer or have a good eye, offer to hang up pictures and make a gallery wall in their home.
• If you cook, make them a week of meals.
• Offer your handyman or handywoman services, if you are indeed handy!
• If you’re a creator, make them a one-of-a-kind piece.

And remember, don’t ask them to call if they need anything. Take the initiative and follow through!

Creative Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Great Gift Giver

We all know that person who’s the best gift giver…but does anyone ever reciprocate their efforts?

If this lovely person is good at gifts, then they are probably in love with shopping!

What do shoppers like? SHOPPING!

33. Gift Cards

Spoil your sweet little shopper with gift cards from their favorite stores and brands. Don’t remember what they like? Ask yourself: Where have they shopped for you? They probably like that place(s)!

I personally would love gift cards to TJ Maxx and Marshalls. They have a huge selection of eclectic and wondrous items and it’s like a treasure hunt every time!

34. Something That Says THEM

This is your time to pay attention to what your loved one loves…and shine! If they shop for others, they’ll be talking about items they like or are looking at. Stay alert and take notes! If you do this, you’ll be speaking the love language they so often speak to you and everyone else in their world.

35. Birthstone Jewelry or Personalized Gift

Add that extra little touch to the good gifter’s gift.

• Pendant with their birthstone: Necklaces are good jewelry gifts if you don’t know if someone’s ears are pierced or what their ring size is. Just make sure the chain is roomy enough!
• Initial necklace: Give them a monogram necklace with their first or last initial. I love this birthstone and initial charm necklace by Starfish Project.
• If they’re obsessed with their pet (as they should be!), you can’t go wrong with a hat, sweatshirt, socks, pillow, pajamas, or blanket with their pet’s picture. You KNOW they will NEVER throw anything away with their pet’s face or name on it! Hence: SUSTAINABLE!

• Handmade or artisan craft: Keep your eyes open at art fairs and markets for unique finds that are one-of-a-kind like your friend. When you pick out something from a local creator, it shows you took quality time and care to search for something extra special.

Sustainable Christmas Gifts Wrap-Up

Beauty Buff

• Ulike IPL Hair Removal System
• Axiology Zero-Plastic Makeup Sticks
• The Original Makeup Eraser
• Blue Q Cosmetic Bags & Totes
• Matt & Nat Cosmetic Bag

Fashion Queen

• Pixie Mood vegan leather, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly purses
• Melie Bianco vegan leather and faux fur bags
• Vegan Leather Trench Coat
• Alice + Olivia Carter Vegan Mini Skirt in Royal
• Adele Patent Vegan Leather Burgundy Boots

Hostess

• Matt & Nat vegan candle
• Recycled glass carafe
• Recycled glass carafe set by Colombian artisans
• Starfish Project jute trivet
• Cozy pajamas from Lands’ End

Men

• Yeti tumbler
• Goodfellow & Co toiletry bag
• Lochtree Dopp Kit
• Blue Q socks
• Vegan leather cardholder

Nature Person

• Plants
• Seed packets
• Bird bath, birdhouse, or birdfeeder
• Gardening tools and decorations
• Solar garden lights like this hydrangea
• This handy dandy weed tool and English ivy tamer
• Garden gloves
• Planter

Someone Who Doesn’t Want Anything

• Terrapass carbon offsets
• Donation to a favorite charity. Here are some ideas:
  • ThisIsHouston dog rescue in Houston, Texas: This is one is on my nice list! Check out Bear’s incredible story. Or try your area pet shelter.
  • Your local food pantry
  • Hurricane disaster relief for those on the East Coast
  • Humanitarian aid organizations working to get food and supplies to displaced civilians
  • Good World Animal Rescue and Protection
• Plan an outing
• Support something near and dear to their heart

Lifelong Learner

• Audible subscription
• Masterclass subscription
• Ancestry.com membership
• Family heirloom

Someone Having a Tough Year

• Offer your help, like pet-sitting, babysitting, taking in their trashcans, or grabbing some groceries or dinner.

Great Gift Giver

• Gift cards
• Something that says THEM
• Birthstone jewelry or personalized treasure
• Pet-themed personalized gift
• Handmade or artisan craft

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