I’ve previously written about how shopping second hand is good for my mental health. Well, spoiler alert, it is good for the planet too.
There is already far too much stuff weighing down this spinning lump of rock, and it is our duty to stop adding to the load.
Shopping responsibly needs more patience and more planning than the ruin-the-earth-get-it-delivered-tomorrow kind, so you’ll have to forgive me for the November gift list. Although it’s timing might just halt a Black Friday splurge too.
Not my first rodeo
For Christmas 2016 I launched a pop up shop in Soho selling products with purpose.
I founded This Because to change the way we shop by making it easy and desirable for everyone to buy products with positive social and environmental impact. We represented 40 companies, told their stories, sold their products and helped to build their brands.
Then I got sick and I learnt a valuable lesson of knowing when to stop a business. But I’ve never stopped looking for ways I can buy less and buy better.
In 2021 This Because evolved into a podcast, and Katee and I recorded a episode where we discussed what it really means to give generously to your friends, family and the world around you.
This year, I’m still banging the drum.
So if you are giving physical gifts this holiday season, here’s a little helping hand.
Nine gifts under £30
These products are good for people and planet, and would probably work for most people on your list.
A zebra plant with pot and tray that will bring a certain vavavoom to anyone’s 2024 desk setup and was grown by a horticultural training programme for women in UK prisons | £26.00 from The Glasshouse
A chocolate bar selection made from the finest ingredients whilst empowering people with autism | £16.00 from Harry Specters
A coffee explorer bundle that helps fund barista training schemes for people who have experiences homelessness | £25 from Old Spike Roastery
A pair of candlestick holders that are preloved and so rescued from landfill | £22 from Vinterior
A pair of running socks that donate 5p per mile towards supporting young runners in unrepresented communities across East London | £19 from Sums
A box wash bag that is perfect for the gym, swimming or toiletries and is made from salvage inflatables | £25 from Inflatable Amnesty
A woolly hat that has been sustainably made in England from 100% recycled yarn | £30 from Antiform
A natural dip-glaze stoneware beaker that would be perfect for small coffee or tasty puddings handmade by people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health challenges and complex needs | £10 from Camphill Village Trust
A fig tea towel that will brighten up any kitchen and help people in prison gain confidence and financial means to support themselves on release | £12.00 from Fine Cell Work
Nine toys for under £15
If you’re shopping for children this holiday season, look no further than preloved marketplace, The Octopus Club. Their community of sellers have so many fantastic toys looking for new homes. Here are few of my favourites for under £15.00.
Happyland helicopter rescue | £5.00
Lanka kade wooden animal bundle | £10.00
Lovevery threading toy | £15.00
Orchard toy games | £10.00
Xylophone musical bench | £11.99
Bluey bin man play set | £10.00
Pullalong pony | £5.00
Noisy jungle book | £5.00
Ready to go at it alone?
Perfect. You can search for presents that look good and do good on The Octopus Club, Vinterior, Thrift+ and Plastic Freedom. The people in your life, and the planet you live on will thank you.
Also I hope it goes without saying, but please do share any of your own recommendations for thoughtful presents in the comments.