Shop principled, practical, and on a budget

My family has always included handmade gifts under the tree, along with donations to charities. For the presents we buy, we try to shop from places we trust and respect for their decent business practices. We have more fun gleefully ripping open boxes when the goodies inside aren't toxic and made under horrible conditions, y'know?

That's why Green Picks recommends holiday gifts from places like REI, Lush, and Dharma Trading Company. These retailers demonstrate a commitment to the environment, and they try to use sustainable, earth-friendly materials in their products.

REI donates millions of dollars every year to natural conservation and helps clean up beaches and build mountain trails. Lush uses fresh, organic fruit and vegetables in its body care goods, many of its products are vegan, and the company stands against animal testing. Dharma recycles extensively at its warehouse and store, avoids chemicals in its fabric products, and does not condone sweatshop labor to produce the clothing it sells. Plus, all of these businesses give great customer service.

Holiday gifts can often end up as expensive clutter around the house, so Green Picks aims to suggest reasonably priced things your family and friends can use all year round. Not only do junky gifts waste shelf space, a chunk of the planet's resources have been used to make and then transport that tchotchke around the world. At least an unwanted fruitcake can be composted!

Check in with Green Picks throughout the Christmas, Hanukkah, and Solstice season for more tips on gift giving and wrapping, home-made presents, and gifting re-imagined.