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News & Resources

Celebrate Sustainable Gift-Giving & Holidays

Posted on December 16, 2019 by Pennsylvania Resources Council

Throughout the year, many folks celebrate a variety of Holidays, including ones that involve gift exchanges. We can keep our waste production in the back of our minds, too. We throw away wrapping paper, bows, packaging material, burnt-out lights, and fruit cakes (that few enjoy, but maybe that’s just me).

Most of what we consume can be composted or recycled, but most of our waste ends up in our garbage cans due to lack of resources or education. However, we can reduce our carbon footprints together by trying to find gifts that are affordable and sustainable.


Where do I start?

First, we have to dig deep, then we must ask ourselves these questions:

  • Does this person want or need this gift?
  • Will it be used more than once?
  • When it is time, how will this product be disposed?

Three Types of Gifts

  1. Durable & Functional
    • Cookware, water bottles, & travel mugs
    • Camping gear
    • Thrift store clothing
  2. Homemade
    • Zero waste kit with reusable utensils, tote bag, & lunchbox
    • Canned foods like jams, salsas, or locally-grown veggies
    • Personal care
    • Arts & crafts candles & cards
  3. Experiences
    • Educational workshops & classes
    • Nonprofit membership & donation
    • Gift cards to stores & local restaurants
    • Tickets to movies & museums
    • Nature’s air purifier, meaning a potted plant

What should I wrap it in?

When presenting a gift, wrap it in a conscious way that aid the environment. Buying gift packages that come pre-wrapped can ease the process, but the packaging is often non-recyclable. You can wrap your gifts in reusable gift bags, which you save from previous exchanges. Also, trying a fabric wrapping style, because it can reused or worn later. Upcycled newsprint, magazines, or road maps can serve as wrapping material, as well.


So, we are hoping these tips and tools assist in your gift-giving journey. By moving towards a “greener” mindset, it can be a way to feel more connected to your friends and family, reduce everybody’s environmental footprint, and you might save a few pennies.

Finally, we are hoping you enjoy any Holiday you may celebrate. We are wishing you time with your friends, family, and loved ones, where you can have rest and recuperation.

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Pittsburgh, PA 15233 USA

P 412-488-7490

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