I'm Dreaming of a "Green" Christmas

As Christmas quickly approaches, I've already started shopping around for fun, eco-friendly stocking stuffer ideas. Here are some of my favorites so far:

For the outdoorsy type (or anyone with a busy lifestyle): Klean Kanteen bottles from www.springhome.com. When my husband and I are on the go, we like to fill our own water up from home to cut down on the environmental impact of bottled water. We typically use plastic bottles because we have so many of them, and they also fit well in the water bottle cages of our bikes. Unfortunately, these hard plastic bottles made with polycarbonate plastics and identified by the #7 recycling symbol, may leach BPA. Bisphenol A is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it disturbs hormone signaling in our bodies. BPA, a synthetic xenoestrogen, is linked to breast cancer and uterine cancer in women, decreased testosterone levels in men, and is harmful to young children. The Klean Kanteen is a stainless steel water bottle, free of BPA and toxins, and the 18 0z. fits into standard bike cages. They can be purchased at this environmentally conscious website that offers a host of eco-friendly products.


For the chocolate lover: Endangered Species Chocolate Bars from www.chocolatebar.com. This praiseworthy company not only makes decadent chocolate, but they also set commendable business standards. They only buy their cacao from small farmers to help sustain their habitats and communities, and make sure the workers are humanely treated and paid a fair price. They also give 10% of their profits to help support endangered species! I give Endangered Species Chocolate Bars my highest recommendation, and enjoy their chocolate on a daily basis. It’s like celebrating Christmas every day!



For the coffee spiller: www.ochelly.com. If you are constantly frustrated with the little coffee spills on your carpet, then you’ll be happy to give “I Am Not A Paper Cup” to your significant other. Reusable and eco-friendly, they eliminate the need for paper coffee cups altogether, and are especially great to take to work. My favorite part? They have a secure lid.


For the candle addict: www.grasshopper510.com. This “green” website offers reclaimed, repurposed, recycled, and sustainable items to choose from! I love their Soybeam candles, and there are 4 heavenly scents that are sure to please. You can reuse the recycled glass jar once the candle is gone. The packaging is made from recycled materials, and printed with soy-based inks. An eco-find for sure!


For the “peanut” in your life: www.organicrush.com. A darling bib and burp set that is 100% certified organic cotton, and certain to put a smile on Mom’s face. Organic rush has many other fun, creative eco-friendly gift ideas!




For the gardener: www.organicstyle.com. A great book for gardeners who need a little extra guidance. Provides helpful solutions to common problems in an easy to read and enjoyable manner. Organic Style is also a great website for a variety of gifts.



For your furry friend who always obeys on command: Ha! (We love ‘em anyway!) www.organicstyle.com. Your little sweetie will definitely be your best friend for life after discovering a 24-piece Gourmet Canine Confection box in their stocking. The treats look so good, you may even be tempted to try one!



For your eco-challenged loved one: www.organic-essence.com. A winter-perfect organic shea cream in the world’s first biodegradable jar. There are delicious scents to choose from including grapefruit, lavender, lemongrass, and vanilla orange. Your loved one will appreciate a step in the right direction after realizing such an ingenious concept!

For anyone who digs a little retro-style: www.treadlightgifts.com. LP drink coasters are created from an original record, and come in an assortment of 6 vintage labels. They are sure to be a conversation item in your living room. Tread Light Gifts is also a member of 1% for the planet, and offer creative gift ideas for many different occasions.


For the girly-girl: www.soapandpaperfactory.com. This is one of my favorite on-line boutiques. Their recycled papers are made in gorgeous prints, and their coveted soaps are made without waxes, petroleum, and animal bi-products. I recommend any and everything from this site. They also give you ideas on how to make use of leftover materials. Love it!