When we know that we consume 3 times more than in the 60s and that our overconsumption is responsible for 37% of CO2 emissions, my optimistic side tells me that this shortage of goods from the rest of the world is an opportunity to question our real needs and to push us to adopt alternative consumption habits... more virtuous, more in line with our deep desires, but also more respectful of the environment.
No more impulsive, over-packaged purchases that travel the world to satisfy our fleeting desires... this year we're opting for eco-friendly gifts for the whole family!
How ?
Beyond the pleasure of giving a quality product, choosing an eco-friendly gift is a committed choice!
Firstly, for the environment, we choose noble, natural, biodegradable or eco-sourced materials, to limit pollution and the impact on our planet.
Then, for the sake of the economy, we choose to buy French. This supports a sector, a brand, a fairly paid professional, good working conditions, and social benefits. More and more companies are relocating their production to France. By buying French, we contribute to preserving our expertise, we participate in the development of innovation, and we are assured of a quality product.
As you know, at My Better Way, my goal is to find the best eco-friendly alternatives to simplify your life and help you learn to do more with less every day. During my research, I stumbled upon some gems that I wanted to share with you!
Here is my selection of eco-friendly gift ideas for the whole family.
For babies or newborns, a set of washable wipes makes a great gift. The Anna et Jade brand offers high-quality, washable squares, handmade in France from natural materials, such as ultra-soft organic fleece, ideal for baby's sensitive skin. Machine washable and therefore reusable, these wipes are a perfect replacement for disposable cotton pads.For young children, I discovered Sixlou's super stylish animal alphabet book on Etsy.
These 26 colorful, postcard-sized alphabet cards are handmade in France. An educational and decorative concept, they can be used by children as playing cards to learn the alphabet with animals, to write their names, or simply as bedroom decor.
https://www.etsy.com/fr/listing/881649598/alphabet-cartes-postales-abecedaire-des?ref=shop_home_active_1&crt=1
For children aged 7 and up, I recommend the Mysteriokid escape room-style educational game. Like a budding secret agent, your child will have to solve puzzles to conduct the investigation. Available as an individual box or by subscription, Mysteriokid explores different educational themes each month in a fun way, providing a break from screens. The paper-based investigation format will help develop reading skills, and the audio component will encourage listening, concentration, and the child's imagination.
https://www.mysteriokid.fr/
For men of all ages, the brand La vie est Belt collects and recycles old bicycle tires to create trendy belts. This innovative company's mission is to reduce pollution by transforming waste into raw materials, giving it a second life!
They also offer belts upcycled from fire hose scraps, and underwear made from old household linens.
https://lavieestbelt.fr/
Another idea, equally useful and trendy, is a reusable water bottle to take everywhere... But not just any bottle, a Gobi water bottle, 100% French-made, eco-designed in glass and assembled in a sheltered workshop (ESAT - Établissement et Service d'Aide par le Travail). Guaranteed free of bisphenols, phthalates, and toxins, its manufacturing impact is offset within 3 months of use. Its small 50cl size makes it easy to carry (commuting, sports, car, office, hiking, beach...) to stay hydrated throughout the day and reduce plastic bottle consumption. You'll never want to be without it!What woman doesn't love receiving jewelry as a gift?
Madame Dorée handcrafts elegant jewelry in her Bordeaux workshop using high-quality materials. Avoiding overproduction, this designer works in limited series and offers bespoke and customizable pieces at very reasonable prices. I'm smitten with her vibrant creations that evoke summer!
https://madamedoree.com/
Another idea is a 3-in-1 travel bath set in a cork carrying case. For eco-friendly beauty and hygiene care, this travel-sized natural cosmetics kit includes a soap, shampoo, and conditioner.The luxury brand Les Panacées, initially dedicated to the hospitality sector, is now available to the general public. Their products, made in France, are natural, with healthy ingredients, free of sulfates, silicones, endocrine disruptors, and above all, plastic, designed to guarantee pleasure and effectiveness. Embark on a unique sensory and aromatic experience with original and delightful fragrances reminiscent of the South, such as cypress, lavender, and rosemary.
The Perpignan-based brand Payote offers stylish espadrilles made in France with respect for Basque tradition and craftsmanship. This young, socially responsible brand aims to provide high-quality, comfortable products with a positive impact on the environment.
Payote products are therefore made with eco-sourced natural materials, including recycled fabrics to limit their environmental impact. Personally, I'm a fan of their fluffy espadrille slippers... a super soft, ultra-comfortable, and stylish style!
https://payote.fr/
Another idea is to give a set of scented candles! But be sure to check their ingredients to avoid polluting the air. The brand Rêves Parfumés offers natural candles, made in France with healthy ingredients like vegetable wax, and delicate fragrances from Grasse, such as candied fruit or tuberose. A bonus of these natural candles is that they burn longer than paraffin candles. The brand also offers a range of massage candles... Ideal for pampering yourself while respecting the environment!If none of the above I mentioned inspired you, don't panic... I still have one last idea that will please everyone: the My Better Way digital gift card.
To be sure you're making the right choice, opt for a gift card in the amount of your choice, from €20 to €100, valid for 12 months on the entire online store. An original, useful, and eco-friendly gift idea... the lucky recipient will receive a promo code to treat themselves from a wide selection of everyday essentials.
Whatever your choice, if you want to have a positive impact on the environment and leave a clean planet for future generations... refuse unnecessary packaging and replace gift wrap with reusable fabric wrapping (tote bag, drawstring bag, furoshiki...). You save on the cost of wrapping paper, avoid the chore of taking out the trash after unwrapping gifts, and easily contribute to reducing pollution... Because, let's not forget, every little bit counts :)
I hope you found this article helpful, and I wish you a very Merry Christmas! HoHoHo.
