Weddings are a celebration of the unity of love, and it is customary to give the happy couple a gift to commemorate the event, and to help them get started in their new life together. One of the greenest gifts to give is cash, as the newly weds can then spend this on kitting out their home or splashing out on their honeymoon. However, if you feel that giving money might be a bit impersonal, the five gift ideas mentioned below are fairly standard on any bridal registry, as these items are the bare essentials to starting a life and home together. But instead of handing over a generic towel set or toaster, make their big day eco-savvy, by opting for a green gift instead.
1. Linen and Bathware
- Sheets, pillows and duvets
- Towels and bathsheets
How to make it green
- Buy items made from organic cotton, bamboo or other fashion-forward fibres.
- Support local producers and manufacturers.
- Buy quality products to ensure longer use.
Why is this green?
- No pesticides or harsh, chemical fertilisers are used.
- Smaller companies generally source raw materials from neighbouring areas, promoting the local economy.
- Products that are made to last reduce the need to buy new items, and limit landfill waste.
2. Kitchenware
- Cookware and utensils
- Crockery and cutlery
- Glasses
- Appliances
How to make it green
- Support companies that make cookware and cutlery out of recycled metal.
- Support hand-made crockery by local artisans.
- Recycled glassware is eco-friendly and uber-chic.
- Purchase servers, serving spoons and mixing bowls made from bamboo or sustainably-sourced wood.
- Check that all appliances are energy- and water-efficient, and carry a rating certification such as ENERGYSTAR or WELS.
Why is this green?
- Limits the impacts of mining virgin material, and the amount of water and energy needed during manufacture.
- By supporting crockery companies that employ neighbouring communities and use local materials, you promote environmental and socio-economic upliftment.
- Using recycled glass uses significantly less water and energy than creating something from virgin material.
- By utilising sustainable resources, farmers reduce the impact on the land and surrounding environment.
- Energy-efficient products save energy, limiting pollution released from power stations.
3. Homeware
- Frames
- Vases
- Electronics
How to make it green
- Buy items made from repurposed or recycled materials.
- Support companies that use recycled materials in electronics, who offer a recycling service at the end of a products life, or who have commitment to phasing out harmful chemicals and materials in manufacture.
Why is this green?
- Recycled and repurposed material use limits waste from being sent to landfills or incinerators.
- Products made from recycled materials reduce the amount of water, energy and virgin resources needed for production.
4. Honeymoon Extras
- Outdoor activities
- Massages and spa treatments
How to make it green
- Sponsor eco-adventures, non-motorised activities or a sensual body treatment that uses essential oils and other natural products.
Why is this green?
- Limit pollution due to less fossil fuel use.
- By supporting products made from naturally occurring ingredients, you support entrepreneurial individuals, and benefit the environment.
5. Hampers and baskets
- Fruit and snacks basket
- Romance and sensual product hamper
- Home starter kit
How to make it green
- Pop in items from local companies or farms, home-made goodies or products from eco-savvy brands.
- Stock up on organically grown and natural products, to make the gift eco-friendly and healthy.
Why is this green?
- By buying products from companies and individuals in your area, you limit the impacts from transport, and support your local economy.
- Organically grown goods come from farms that use no chemical pesticides or fertilisers.
- By using repurposed or recycled materials, you limit the amount of waste destined for the landfill.
