Sustainable gift ideas from Metro—recipients and the planet will thank you
With winter shopping season in full swing, crowds are tearing through malls and shopping centers across the region. Fortunately, you can avoid the crowds by giving more personalized and creative gifts that are also more sustainable than traditional mass-produced goods.
During the holiday season, the Portland metropolitan area throws away 25 percent more garbage than any other time of the year. By giving sustainable gifts and making other waste-wise decisions, you can help lower your impact on the environment and make sure the holidays stay green.
Homemade gifts can be more personal, less expensive and have a smaller carbon footprint. Gift baskets with homemade goodies, wreaths made of dried flowers from your garden or a hand-built birdhouse are just a few ideas to get you started.
Not the crafty type? Many local artists and crafters can help you fill the void. Handmade items from specialty stores or craft fairs are rarely wrapped in disposable packaging. Plus, buying locally contributes to the region’s economy.
Our region is also known for its outstanding cultural offerings including plays, concerts and art shows. Consider giving the gift of an experience, such as tickets to the Oregon Ballet Theatre’s performance of the Nutcracker or season tickets to shows at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts. These gifts support local performers, create lasting memories and don’t come wrapped in plastic packaging. Gift recipients, and the planet, will thank you.
Whether you decide to craft something by hand, find the perfect outfit at a vintage shop or purchase tickets from a local venue, the Portland metropolitan area has virtually unlimited options to help you keep trash out of the landfill this holiday season.