At Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, we take great pride in our role of inspiring neighbors of all ages to do their part to protect the environment and serve their communities. This very special time of year is the ideal time to “plant the seed” in an aspiring environmentalist or show your support for the efforts of the tried-and-true tree hugger on your holiday shopping list. Its also the perfect occasion to be intentional about your gift giving – AND gift wrapping – by making eco-friendly, sustainable selections when you’re out shopping. Here are our Top Six Suggestions for this green gift-giving season as 2022 rounds down to a close…
Reusable Water Bottle
By far one of the easiest gift items to find, a reusable water bottle will go to great use every day – not only ensuring that the receiver stays hydrated, but also minimizes their use of single-use plastic water bottles. It’s a simple step that can make a big impact. After all, an estimated 60 million plastic bottles end up in landfills and incinerators every day.
Hydroponic Gardening System
Like something straight out of the future, this is the perfect gift for apartment dwellers who love to garden but don’t have a yard. Hydroponics involves growing plants without soil – so they’re low on the mess factor and can quickly produce everything from herbs and lettuce to strawberries and hot peppers year-round.
The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide by Jen Gale
The author offers up “everything you need to know to make small changes that make a big difference.” For even more reading inspiration, TinyEcoHomeLife.com has curated an awesome list of 14 more books on sustainability.
Portable Solar Charger
Know someone who’s always on the go with their smartphone in hand? A portable solar power bank can be placed in a car or home window to gather power from the sun’s rays that can then be used to charge their phone, tablet or even laptop. They also make a great gift for anyone on your list who loves to camp but doesn’t want to unplug completely when out in the wild.
Indoor Composting System
The perfect gift for someone who’s limited on yard space but devoted to the environment, there are a variety of countertop systems that convert food waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer for their indoor or outdoor garden.
A Tribute Donation to Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful
GC&B offers several levels of support. If you have someone in your life who has a passion for environmental stewardship, they are likely to love the fact that you made them an honorary Student Supporter ($25), Fan ($50), Advocate ($100), Partner ($500) or Champion ($1000) of GC&B. Donate HERE!
But before we go… here are a couple of eco-focused practices to keep in mind when out shopping…
SHOP LOCAL – Stick close to home to minimize your carbon footprint. Gwinnett County is blessed with some truly incredible malls, open-air shopping districts and charming Main Street boutiques.
REUSE LIKE A CHAMP – Show the shopping world how it’s done by coming equipped with your reusable shopping bags and water bottle so you won’t “drop” when you shop and can stay hydrated while keeping waste down
THE GIFT BAG THAT’S ALSO A GIFT – Consider picking up some cute reusable shopping bags to use in place of traditional gift bags so they can reuse like a champ, too!
From all of us here at Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, we wish you and yours a Happy Holiday Season and all the very best in the New Year!