Green Gift Guide: Part 1

As we enter the holiday season, I thought it would be fun to start posting some green gift ideas in different price categories. Sometimes I think we just get so caught up in the shopping hoopla that we forget there are fun, eco-friendly ideas out there too! So with that I present you with the Green Gift Guide: Part 1.

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Greenfield Paper Company

Here you will find not only journals and sketch books made from hemp paper and ruled in soy ink, but the 100% recycled wrapping paper to present them in.

Bedol Water Powered Clock

Powered by salt water and totally portable, these little clocks are perfect for those in your life who need a little more time.

Wrap It Up

No matter what you are giving, consider the wrapping. And then consider wrapping your gift in a reusable bag, like this one from Baggu.

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Recycled leather and wool gloves.

I think that these are

1. Adorable 2. Look ultra warm 3. Are a relatively guilt-free way to wear animal products

Adorable Molly M Lasercut Jewelry

Made from sustainable bamboo and recycled suede, felt, and wool. This jewelry looks good and does good. Get striking designs like the one above or these branches.

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Viridis Luxe Couture Hemp Clothing

It's pricey and somewhat hard to find. But most of it is uber cute and it's made with the very sustainable hemp.

Composter

I am including a composter on the list because there are so many friends I know who live in the suburbs and would compost if only they had an "easy" way. This composter is that easy way and one of the best investments you can make for the Earth.

The sky is the limit

At websites like, Tis Best, you can purchase your loved one a gift card, the entire amount which will be donated to the charity of the recipient's choice.

The Gift of Water

If you are wondering why you haven't heard from me in a while, I have two words for you-swine flu. Yup. While traveling to and from DC for a conference (and not taking great care of myself), I got the big bad and have been in bed barely able to function since. So hopefully I will be on the mend soon and back with a green holiday gift guide! Get excited!

In the meantime, I leave you with this. Before you buy anything (more?) this holiday season, I ask you to consider giving the first gift of clean water to those who really need it. Here I am day in and out trying to get us greener, and we sometimes forget that some people don't even have the most basic of earthly gifts, clean water. I know times are tight for all but just $10 is all they are asking for to really help save lives. If you can, please do.

(Holiday) Lights Out

It's that time of year when we are getting out and putting away holiday decorations. Every once in a while you come across a strand of lights, like I did last winter and this fall, that is kaput. Please reconsider before you trash them. I found this great light recycling program (not too far from me in Jackson, MI) that you can send your lights into. This company takes the lights and recycles them for you. Best part is, if you include your email address, they'll send you a coupon for 15% off a new light purchase!

The program is open every year from the beginning of October through February. So collect all those misfit lights, send them in, and save a couple kinds of green!