5 Ways to Gift Greener This Summer

For a season full of gracious gifting, opt for these thoughtful green options

The warm summer months are always bursting with happy events, from baby showers to weddings to soirées under the stars. So, how does the environmentally aware consumer select a gift with a lighter footprint on our ailing planet? With the compassionate shopper in mind, we have rounded up a selection of gift ideas that are not only thoughtfully sourced, they are a delight to receive.

Here are five things to consider as options as you give gifts this summer…

1. The beauty of botanicals

If you are ready to skip the plastic wrapped bouquets that are standard fare nowadays, perhaps it is time to choose a longer lasting alternative. Room6 in Deep Cove offers a plethora of gift ideas for those pursuing a zero-waste lifestyle, including locally sourced botanicals. According to owner, Megan Curren, choosing local is always key.

“Locally grown, not flown, is a good motto for buying flowers and plants,” she says. “Houseplants are long lasting, beautiful and have the added benefit of cleaning the air.”  

Presented in a handmade clay planter or vase from a B.C. potter such as Kalika Bowlby or Heather Dahl, a lush plant is a gift that keeps on giving. Shopping for a unique wedding gift? A full set of Canadian handmade mugs or tumblers, a speckled teapot, pitcher or a colourful set of planters from Room6 are all unique works of art that are sure to make a lasting impression.

2. The gift of self-care

A gift that inspires self-care is always appreciated. Victoria-based Elate Cosmetics has a wide variety of natural products to choose from. This toxin-free, cruelty-free and vegan-friendly company is also on track to becoming fully zero-waste. Using sustainable bamboo palettes, limited plastic and even wildflower seed paper packaging, Elate offers products that are earth-friendly, beautiful and effective. Prep Smoothing Skin Primer (with a floral hydrate complex), Universal Creme (for cheeks and lips) and Better Balm made with plant-based goodness are just a few luxurious options.

Huna Skincare is another trail-blazing green beauty brand offering a truly all natural line-up of skincare products. The Manitoba-based business grows over 30 different organic plant species to create products that are 100 per cent organic without added artificial ingredients. Revitalize Botanical Face Mist (with Canadian rose, aloe vera and watermelon) or a Nourish Gift Set (a six-piece package of Huna’s top sellers) is sure to impress the discerning beauty junkie in your life.

3. Baby love

Even our very littlest ones can be dressed in thoughtfully made and stylish clothing this summer. Parade Organics is a Vancouver-based company that exclusively uses 100 percent GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) organic cotton—made without the use of pesticides or harsh chemicals—to create an adorable range of clothing and blankets in B.C.-inspired prints. According to Megan Curren, paying attention to the materials used to make a garment is a must.

“If I buy new, I always pick organic or natural fabrics,” she says.

Another bonus from Parade Organics? The prices are reasonable so your baby gift is sure to impress without draining your budget.

4. Take it to go

A stylish reusable coffee mug is a must-have nowadays. For the co-worker, student or really anyone who’s on the go, a well-made hot and cold brew bottle, ceramic travel mug or a reusable coffee cup from Nanaimo-based Green Boheme is an incredibly useful gift. Looking for an idea for a cute party favour? Why not send guests home with Simply Beautiful’s stylish stainless steel reusable straws in a lovely rose gold shade. These simple gifts will undoubtedly go the distance.

5. Make it an experience

With Marie Kondo providing us with serious decluttering inspiration, gifting an experience instead of a thing could not be more on-trend. A gift certificate from Deep Cove Kayak or Ecomarine Paddlesport is a perfect offering for the water sports enthusiast in your life or simply someone who needs a little slice of tranquility. A paddle up the Indian Arm or around English Bay sets the tone for a quintessential summer memory.