10 sustainable gift ideas for Christmas

Gifts should be beautiful, usually within a certain price range, and to truly bring joy to others, it would also be wonderful if the gifts were practical. Because then there's also the issue of sustainability: a topic that is more important now than ever. 

Are you looking for gifts that are beautiful and have as little impact on the environment as possible? Then you'll certainly find some ideas here to make someone happy this year - there's something for every price range. 

1) Outdoor gift idea: Backpack made of rPET

There are now many fantastic companies that create wonderful products from rPET (recycled and used PET bottles). Backpacks made from recycled plastic are also available. Unlike backpacks made from new yarn, the Hamburg-based label Elamo, for example, also uses bottles that have already been used. Founder Fabian started Elamo a few years ago at his kitchen table and now runs a great company that, in addition to producing backpacks, is also committed to sustainability. The backpacks are timelessly beautiful and simple, water-repellent, and practical. Small details, like the USB charging port, make these backpacks truly special companions. You can find the current models here .

2) The sustainable alternative to shower gel, shampoo and conditioner: 3-in-1 solid shower bar

In recent years, soaps have experienced a major resurgence – and rightly so. The microplastics and petroleum used in many shower gels and other personal care products are harmful to us and our environment. 

There are now many plastic-free options that smell pleasant and are often even suitable for skin and hair. Scent is, of course, a matter of personal preference, but the founders of Be Chakka have created two different fragrances. The shower bar is primarily designed for men, but can be used by women as well. And above all, it's plastic-free, vegan, and free of unnecessary parabens. Browse the different scents here and choose the perfect gift directly from the online shop.

3) Special gift ideas made of silver

My First Spoon, founded by Teresa and Julia, offers something truly special. They not only provide children's cutlery as a birth gift, crafted from fine silver, but also wonderful gifts for adults. Sustainable, plastic-free, and above all, timeless silver pieces, such as champagne flutes or gin glasses, make exceptional Christmas gifts.  All products are handmade in the oldest silver manufactory in Flensburg and can therefore also be engraved on request.

4) Outdoor gift idea: the cuddly soft blanket made of rPET

Especially in winter, cozy blankets are a must-have for relaxing afternoons or evenings. This exceptionally soft yet water-repellent blanket, made from recycled materials, is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to do more than just snuggle up on the couch at home. Thanks to its sustainable coating and snap fasteners, the UNFOLD blanket is a versatile all-rounder that can be used both indoors and outdoors. And if it gets dirty, it's even washable. This blanket will be a cherished companion for the recipient in many situations. Discover it in three different colors and order the UNFOLD blanket here with free shipping to your home.

5) Give the gift of pure coffee enjoyment without caffeine

The perfect gift idea for all coffee lovers who value a conscious lifestyle but still want a fantastic taste experience. That's exactly what OHNE coffee offers: the full coffee flavor leaves even seasoned coffee connoisseurs indistinguishable from caffeinated coffee. Flo, the founder of OHNE, is also a coffee lover and knows his stuff. 

OHNE coffee is naturally decaffeinated and fair trade. OHNE coffee is also perfect as a small Christmas gift for pregnant women or anyone who enjoys a coffee in the late afternoon or evening. 

6) Give fair trade and sustainable chocolate as a Christmas gift.

As a small gift or a complete gift set: Once Upon a Bean offers exceptional chocolate. Their diverse sets feature sustainably produced and fair-trade chocolates to suit every taste. They provide complete transparency, revealing where the chocolate was produced and the story behind it. Naturally, it's fair trade and absolutely delicious.  The two likeable founders Lisa and Marvin from Hamburg recently founded the start-up and have great Christmas sets which you can find here .

7) Gift idea: Cozy fair fashion for the whole family

In autumn and winter, when the days get shorter and we spend more time at home, we can really make ourselves comfortable. Why not a set for the whole family?

The timeless and stylish Berlin-based label Or.Basics now offers not only sustainable children's clothing but also clothes for adults. These are just as soft as the children's basics and simply super comfortable, solid-colored, and therefore perfectly combinable. 

Lilija, the founder, has all her textiles produced in Portugal and recently launched her first men's collection. So you can find a gift for every family member here ; check out the great selection of colors. 

8) Gift idea: Sustainable sports mat

For all sports enthusiasts, a sustainable yoga mat makes a multifunctional Christmas gift. Even if you're not a serious yogi, you'll still need a mat for stretching. Why not give the sustainable option? These beautiful and stylish mats are made in Germany from recycled foam, and the best part is that they can be recycled when they're no longer needed. You can find a brilliant concept and a great Christmas gift idea here . 

9) Gift idea: a card set for good conversations

As the days grow shorter and the evenings longer, the card set from Beherzt (Heartfelt) makes a wonderful gift idea: with 90 questions, it can fill more than one evening. Perfect for friends, couples, or family members who want to ask each other some bold questions. Sisters Antonia and Johanna are experts in their field and have created thought-provoking prompts in three categories: "About Me," "About You," and "About Us." These prompts are sure to open hearts and encourage meaningful conversation. The great thing about this gift idea is that it's perfect for sharing and can also be used again and again. Find out more here .

10) Outdoor gift tip: A book for your next family campervan trip

Camping is very popular these days, especially traveling through Europe with the family in a campervan. But where can you find great, family-friendly campsites, what should you pack, and what are the challenges of everyday travel? Tina from Our Life is Better Outside has published a fantastic book in which she shares all her tips from her year-long trip through Europe. Honest, authentic, and packed with valuable advice, this book will inspire you to plan your next trip. It's a great gift idea for all travel-loving families who want to explore Europe by campervan. You can find a sample here .

The same principle applies to meaningful Christmas gifts to ensure they remain sustainable: only buy what you truly need and want to give! Keep the ecological aspect in mind when wrapping gifts as well, to bring joy to others in a truly sustainable way.

Have fun giving it as a gift!