When it comes to being environmentally friendly, gift-giving can be tricky. Between non-biodegradable wrapping paper, polypropylene sticky tape and unwanted gifts being sent to landfill, selecting the perfect present for an eco-conscious friend can be an arduous challenge.

That being said, there is no reason to worry. Eco-friendly gift options are plentiful and accessible, so if you require a little inspiration, look no further. Here are some excellent environmentally friendly gift ideas for the conservationist in your life.

Bird Feeders

Birds are vital members of the worldwide ecosystem, providing essential pollination and seed dispersal for many plants. According to recent research, there are around 600 million fewer birds in Europe than there were 40 years ago, which is an alarming figure. A fantastic and simple way to make a positive impact on the local bird population is to provide year-round nutrition in the form of bird feeders - something your nature-loving recipient will truly appreciate.

Gardening Equipment

If your recipient is passionate about the environment, they’re likely passionate about maintaining biodiversity in their own garden. A set of brand-new gardening tools makes pruning, weeding, raking and planting almost effortless. Consider presenting your gift of gardening tools in a terracotta plant pot or even a portable garden caddy, negating the need for gift wrap or packaging.

Homemade Seed Bombs

Seed bombs are a fantastic gift idea that you can either purchase from a small business online or make yourself. Simply mix one part wildflower seeds with five parts compost and a little clay powder. Gradually add water until the mixture binds together before forming small balls with your mixture. Once dry, these seed bombs can be thrown just about anywhere to encourage biodiversity and a healthy bee population.

Reusable Bags

We all know how bad plastic shopping bags are for the environment. Plastic requires vast amounts of energy from fossil fuels to be manufactured and is not biodegradable. While plastic bags can be reused and recycled, they eventually end up in landfills, becoming microplastics that act as vectors for diseases in the environment. Aside from paper, the most eco-friendly shopping bags available are sustainable tote bags made from recycled, reusable organic cotton.

Natural Bath Products

We all love giving and receiving luxury cosmetics and toiletries. However, many commercial products are not made from natural, sustainable ingredients. Find a small business that offers organic bath products (of which there are many), or you could even have a go at making some yourself, using ingredients such as shea butter, oatmeal and essential oils. Go the extra mile and wrap your products up beautifully in sustainable packaging to keep them safe in transit.

Reusable Coffee Cup

We all love a hot cup of tea or coffee to start the day. Unfortunately, when you’re on the go, it’s difficult to find a café or coffee shop that serves their beverages in 100% sustainable cups. Most establishments will make your drink directly into a reusable, insulating coffee cup…if you have one, that is. A unique, custom coffee cup or thermos will enable your recipient to enjoy their morning brew whilst sticking to their environmental values.

Potted Plants

It’s likely your eco-conscious recipient already has a whole host of houseplants and a thriving garden; however, the more, the merrier! Houseplants vastly improve any indoor environment with their magical mood-boosting, productivity-improving properties. Alternatively, you could grab your recipient a new addition to their outdoor garden. Consider a variety that attracts bees and other critters, such as lilac, marjoram, abelia or lavender.

Local Produce Hamper

Edible gifts always go down a storm - even better when they’re locally sourced. Although you can expect to pay a little more for local artisan produce, it is invariably worth every penny. Locally grown food is not only fresher, healthier and tastier, but it also encourages sustainable agriculture and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, local produce benefits the local economy by supporting local farmers, bakers, foragers and other small businesses.

Experience Gifts

If you’re not enthusiastic about the idea of a physical gift, booking an experience day can be an excellent alternative. Giving your recipient the gift of an adventure over a material item can lead to treasured lifelong memories, particularly if it’s an experience the both of you can enjoy. Consider an experience that aligns with their values, such as sustainable bee-keeping, a foraging workshop or wine tasting at a local vineyard.