The Most Sustainable Gift for Every Person on Your List
In a world driven by consumerism, the act of giving has often been synonymous with the exchange of material possessions. In response to climate change and environmental degradation, many are reevaluating their approach to gift-giving. Philanthropic giving is a great alternative to material gifts.
From excessive packaging to the production and transportation of goods, the carbon footprint of conventional gifts can be significant. As the planet faces increasing threats, it’s time to rethink our approach. That’s why, this year, One Planet Life is encouraging you to consider donating to a cause close to your loved ones’ hearts instead of buying something they may not really need.
The Rise of Sustainable and Philanthropic Giving
Enter the era of sustainable and philanthropic giving. This paradigm shift encourages us to consider the planet’s well-being and move beyond material possessions. By diverting our resources toward causes that directly benefit the environment, we can make a real difference. Sustainable philanthropy takes many forms, all aimed at protecting and preserving our planet and the diverse ecosystems within it.
Sustainable giving isn’t limited to environmental organizations. You can also make a difference by supporting initiatives that promote sustainable practices that benefit both nature and communities. The holiday season is all about giving, and what better way to make it special than by combining your loved ones’ interests with sustainable philanthropy? This gift guide will help kick-start your holiday giving early.
Gift Ideas for Nature Enthusiasts
Do you have an avid hiker on your gift list? Or someone who loves spending time in the great outdoors? Support organizations dedicated to trail systems, national parks, and other wildlife areas in your recipient’s name, and help secure access to beautiful wild spaces for generations.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
Appalachian Trail Conservancy – For many hikers, trekking the Appalachian Trail is a lifelong dream. Buying a membership for a loved one offers perks like an oversized Appalachian Trail strip map, a subscription to their membership magazine, and more.
Pacific Crest Trail Association – Since 1977, the PCTA has protected, maintained, and advocated for the Pacific Crest Trail. Memberships offer a magazine subscription, exclusive access to events and classes, and more.
National Parks Conservation Association – Gift members receive a member luggage cube to welcome them to the NPCA family, as well as a year’s subscription to the National Parks magazine.
Arbor Day Foundation – Membership to the Arbor Day Foundation gives your loved one access to saplings to plant in their yard or local park, a membership magazine, and discounts year-round to their online or mail-order nursery. They also have a sustainable coffee club for the caffeine lovers in your family!
Gifts for Environmentalists and Climate Advocates
If your loved ones are passionate about environmental issues and climate change, support initiatives that work towards a sustainable future. Donating to organizations involved in renewable energy, climate action, or environmental policy can be a fitting gift.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
Environmental Defense Fund – For over 50 years, the Environmental Defense Fund has been an advocate for clean energy initiatives, carbon sequestration, clean air, toxic chemical policies, and more.
The Nature Conservancy – This non-profit has impacted conservation in over 70 countries and territories. They are a well-known and trusted advocate for protecting vital lands and waters, safeguarding threatened species, and more.
Natural Resource Defense Council – NRDC advocates for the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities. They support utilizing science, policy, law, and people power to confront the climate crisis, protect public health, and safeguard nature.
Gifts for Foodies and Agriculture Lovers
Support sustainable agriculture initiatives by donating to local or global organizations that promote organic farming, sustainable food production, or community-supported agriculture (CSA). Your gift can help build a more sustainable and equitable food system.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
Regeneration International – This non-profit’s mission is to promote, facilitate, and accelerate the global transition to regenerative food, farming, and land management. Through these efforts, they hope to restore climate stability, end world hunger, and rebuild deteriorated social, ecological, and economic systems.
Rodale Institute – Conducting groundbreaking research since 1947, donations help this organization toward its goal of harnessing the power of regenerative organic agriculture to secure the future health of the planet.
Sustainable Harvest International – An environmental nonprofit with over 25 years of experience, this organization partners with smallholder farmers to adopt regenerative practices that nourish people and the planet.
Gifts for Animal Lovers
Our planet is home to incredible biodiversity, and philanthropic giving can make a significant impact on conservation. By supporting organizations that work to protect endangered species and their habitats, you’re helping maintain the delicate balance of nature. These efforts not only prevent the extinction of species but also ensure healthier ecosystems and a more resilient planet.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
World Wildlife Fund Symbolic Animal Adoptions – Choose to “adopt” from a list of over 100 different endangered species. Kits include adoption certificates, a photo of the animal, and even the option for a plush version of the animal of your choice.
Heifer International – Through this non-profit, you can choose to gift specific animals to communities and families in need. These donations are equivalent to gifting someone a small business by providing wool, milk, eggs and more.
The Ocean Conservancy – This non-profit is on the front lines of ocean protection. They invest in research, leadership, and advocacy that advances evidence-based solutions to protect our planet’s oceans and marine wildlife.
Gifts for Education and Literacy Enthusiasts
Promote education and literacy by contributing to programs that provide educational opportunities to underserved communities. Your gift can help empower individuals through knowledge and learning.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
Donate to your recipient’s local library – Libraries provide access far beyond books. They are information hubs for many communities; donations provide funds for upgraded technologies, as well as programs, classes, and events.
National Environmental Education Foundation – The nation’s leading organization in lifelong environmental learning. NEEF creates opportunities for people of all ages to experience and learn about the environment in ways that improve their lives and the health of the planet.
Neighborhood Forest – Since 2010, this non-profit has reached over 1,500 schools, libraries, and youth groups. They have engaged over 500,000 families and planted over 130,000 trees (mostly urban and residential) through the hands of children and parents across North America.
Gifts for Art and Culture Aficionados
Support cultural preservation by donating to organizations that protect historical sites, promote indigenous art and culture, or work to conserve cultural heritage. Your gift can help preserve the richness of our world’s diverse cultures.
Consider donating to these non-profits:
The American Institute for Conservation and the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation – Conservators play a vital role in protecting and preserving the art, objects, and historic sites that tell the story of our lives, history, and society. By donating, you can directly help fund these efforts. These organizations also strive to advance sustainable practices to fight the impact of the climate crisis, preserve heritage at risk, and improve the field.
UNESCO – Contributions to UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre are used for projects implemented by experts to protect World Heritage sites around the world.
The joy of sustainable philanthropy goes beyond traditional gift-giving.
It’s about knowing that your actions are making a tangible difference. It’s about the satisfaction of contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
As we witness the growing threats to our environment, it’s clear that our planet needs our support. By embracing sustainable and philanthropic giving, we redirect our resources toward meaningful, impactful, and environmentally responsible causes. The true gift lies not in what we receive but in what we give back to the Earth.
Check out OPL’s Giving to Make a Difference to discover more non-profits we love!
Discover more sustainable gift ideas on our blogs:
Written by Carley Kimball
Freelance Journalist and OPL Content Contributor
“I’ve always tried to implement planet-friendly practices in my life but didn’t quite realize just how much of an impact individuals can make until I was introduced to One Planet Life. I’m so excited to be able to utilize my professional skills to contribute valuable information and positive personal experiences to help make the world a better place.”
