Draw names for family giving so everyone just gives one person a gift instead of buying for everyone. Nearly every family who switches to this method loves it!
Pick a friend who you know will be receptive, and agree not to exchange gifts. Go out for dinner or drinks instead.
If your spouse or partner agrees (very important!), give each other practical gifts you would have bought anyway, such as tools, kitchen stuff or a laptop computer.
“Experience gifts” cut waste. If you can find businesses and organizations that offer gift certificates or tickets at a discount – for restaurant meals, massages, plays, concerts, sports events and more – you can also save money. It never hurts to ask – maybe they will give you a 10 or 20 percent discount. One great example of a discounted experience gift: A three-day pass to the annual Bumbershoot festival in Seattle is $60 purchased far in advance, instead of $150 to purchase tickets each day.
When a friend or family member says they “don’t want any more stuff,” take them seriously.
If you're not sure what to give someone, gift cards can be a greener gift rather than just taking a wild guess at what they want. The recipient gets exactly what they desire, which usually reduces waste.
If you know the recipient is okay with it, shop thrift stores (external) or consignment shops. You can often find more distinctive gifts and get more for your money. Offer your time or skills. Make your own gift certificates for a special dinner, or to help around the house or in the garden.
Volunteer (external) in someone’s name, instead of giving a material gift.
Donate (external) in someone’s name.
Consider the long-term environmental effects of gifts, such as appliances or electronics. When you do give those items, choose energy-efficient Energy Star-certified products (external).
Do the recipient and the planet a favor and choose well-made, durable gifts.
Plants make green, low-waste gifts, but choose sturdy plants that you know the recipient will be able to care for.
Make a family history by recording interviews of elderly family members or putting together a scrap book of old pictures.
Before giving cookies or candy as gifts or treats, make sure the recipients want them. Research shows that 20 percent of all candy gets tossed out uneaten.
Use reusable storage containers or tins for your homemade items.
Food gifts are great for reducing waste, since people need to eat anyway. Pick foods the recipient will like; avoid the items that are so exotic they will just sit in the cupboard for years.
Local farmers markets are great places to find food gifts. Several markets are open through December, including Ballard, Broadway, University District, Vashon and West Seattle.
