The global stock-taking under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change reveals that the world is falling behind on critical climate goals. Out of 169 targets, only 13 percent are on track, while 18 percent are not even monitored. This highlights the pressing need for shared responsibility, collective action, and innovative solutions.
One of the best ways to do our bit is to adopt green practices in our daily lives. In this season of goodwill, when it comes to gifting, why not opt for meaningful gestures that are kinder to the planet?
Here are some green gifting ideas we can all take inspiration from:
Dedicate trees to loved ones: From the Himalayan terrain to industrial hubs like Jamshedpur, every region in India requires help to augment biodiversity. You can help Mother Earth by supporting nationwide afforestation efforts. Trees not only proactively address pollution by absorbing carbon and releasing oxygen, mitigate the impact of climate change, and curb soil erosion but also expand wildlife habitats. Social Enterprises like Grow-Trees.com offer us opportunities to plant a tree for loved ones and encourage individuals and corporate entities to rethink gifting. With your gift, you can support projects like Trees for Migratory Birds™, Trees for Cities, and Trees+ for the Himalayas. A single click on their website can help you to dedicate trees and receive an eTreeCertificate®, which provides the location of the project that you have supported.
Upcycled home décor: Responsible gifting cognisant of environmental impact was never this simple. This year, choose zero-waste home decor that won’t end up in a landfill. There are a multitude of green gifting options ranging from upcycled furniture pieces to bottles converted into lamps to papier-mache masks. You can even choose utilitarian objects like sound amplifiers and mobile holders. Incredibly durable, renewable, and rich in tonal variation, such products are handcrafted from natural or recycled raw materials. Soy candles in reusable jars, jute and macrame wall panels, clay pottery, and stoneware are some other delightful options.
Reusable tote bags: To minimize plastic waste, how about gifting beautiful, hand-painted, embroidered, or screen-printed tote cotton and jute bags? While many niche Indian companies and even bigger brands are increasingly leaning towards natural materials, it makes sense to support tribal and rural craftspeople who have always used nature-friendly materials and techniques. Look for NGOs and craft collectives that offer bags, shawls, wall art, and jewelry crafted with great eco-sensitivity.
Plantable Stationery: What if your gift could blossom into a colorful daisy or marigold? Seed-embedded stationery sets make for a perfect gifting gesture. This beautiful alternative to traditional paper products is also a wonderful way to honor nature. These plantable gifts are perfect for loved ones living in urban areas, as they can be sown and grown in small pots.
Organic tea and coffee hampers: If you have a tea or coffee connoisseur as a friend, consider a gift hamper packed with organic tea and coffee along with earthen mugs, matching coasters, and a thoughtful greeting card. You can also put together a hamper of home-baked goodies, jams bursting with natural flavors, organic spices, handmade chocolates, and anything that your friend or loved one has a preference for. The idea is to buy local and personalize each gift with care.
