© iStock

Paraffin-free candles -

Candles are sometimes made from toxic materials or contain some level of chemicals that give them scent. 

Soy candles are paraffin-free, biodegradable, non-toxic, and usually blended with non-allergenic essential oils for fragrance. A great eco-conscious alternative!

© Shutterstock

Organic cotton linen -

100% cotton linen is a dream to sleep in, as well as a lovely ethical and eco-friendly gift to give. They can be a bit pricey, but can last a lifetime.

© iStock

Handmade colorful rug -

If your friend or family member is a sucker for all things home decor, a colorful rug is a great option.

Handmade rugs can be made from all types of recycled materials and fabrics, and are each as unique as the next. 

© iStock

Artisan purses with a story -

There are countless organizations and charities that aim to make the world a better place.

In exchange for money, many sell artisan goods such as bags, scarves, and jewelry, that all give back to a specific cause.

© iStock

Handmade bowl -

Handmade bowls are not only beautifully handcrafted and unique, but also very purposeful.

You can put anything in them, making them a great and gorgeous eco-conscious gift!

© iStock

Coconut wood spoons -

Coconut wood spoons are a great gift for friends who love to entertain and cook up a storm. 

These rustic-looking eco-friendly spoons are made from coconut shells and make a great addition to any kitchen.

© Shutterstock

Handwoven grass baskets -

Handmade from natural materials, handwoven baskets and bowls are a lovely way to add an ethnic touch or pop-of-color to any home or room.

In many cases, these artisan goods have been made in developing countries to which proceeds are often sent back to. It's a gift that gives back!

© iStock

Cork yoga mat -

These yoga mats are also biodegradable and sustainable.

Cork is a buoyant material that gives an elastic-like feel, which makes it great to exercise on and light to carry.

© iStock

Biodegradable yoga mat - These mats are free from ozone diminishing materials and made without any latex. If your yogi friends are super eco-conscious, a biodegradable mat is the way to go!

© iStock

Reusable water bottle -

Billions of water bottles end up in landfills each year. To save the world from any more unnecessary plastic waste, treat your loved ones to reusable and eco-friendly water bottles.

Nowadays you can find reusable bottles easily, so there's no excuse not to buy them and help save the planet. Every little bit helps! 

© Shutterstock

Reusable coffee cup -

There are metallic ones that keep your coffee warm longer, collapsible ones that fit in any bag, fun and colorful ones—you name it.

Help your relatives and friends save the planet from wasting any more plastic and get them a thermal mug for the road.

© iStock

Recycled chopping board -

And by recycled we mean made from cut-off wood pieces that otherwise would have gone to waste.

Every kitchen needs a cutting board or two, so why not gift a gorgeous and eco-friendly one?

© iStock

Recycled plastic swimwear - Batoko is an ethical fashion company that makes all their swimwear from recycled plastic. Also, they ship worldwide!

© iStock

Ethical clothing - Buying 100% organic and ethical clothing helps the planet, as well as the designers and makers behind the garments.

© iStock

Handmade jewelry -

Handcrafted and fair trade jewelry is not only unique, but also environmentally friendly.

Treat your loved ones to natural and one-of-a-kind pieces that speak to their personality and support local communities.

© iStock

Cotton tote bag -

Plastic bags are a thing of the past (or they should be). This Christmas, gift reusable and washable tote bags and help reduce plastic waste.

There are endless colors and styles to choose from, just make sure they are 100% cotton.

© Shutterstock

Jute bag -

In comparison to tote bags, jute bags are perhaps a more durable option. 

Jute bags are often bigger in size, which is also very handy (especially when grocery shopping).

© iStock

Packing cubes - To further reduce plastic waste, fabric packing cubes are a great way to maximize space in luggage and help separate clothes, shoes, and accessories.

© Shutterstock

Eco diaper bag -

Most parents rely on their diaper bags to carry the essentials for any outing with their small children.

If you know any new parents who could really do with a new bag, get them a lasting and eco-friendly diaper bag.

It's a win-win situation for the parent and the planet!

© iStock

Beeswax wrap -

This is a very handy and practical gift that allows you to wrap and seal anything from Tupperware to a sliced lemon.

Beeswax wraps are made from sustainable beeswax (obviously), organic cotton, tree resin, and jojoba oil. And as an added bonus, it's 100% biodegradable.

© Shutterstock

Organic cosmetics - Think how good organic soaps, face creams, moisturizers, shampoos, and body scrubs are for the skin, and how much your loved ones would enjoy them!

© iStock

Shea butter -

Many organic cosmetics have shea butter in them, but there's nothing quite like 100% shea butter. 

It is made from shea trees and is high in vitamins and fatty acids that are great for softening and moisturizing the skin. In some parts of Africa, people use it for cooking.

© iStock

Lush products - A place where you can buy organic and natural cosmetics (on a budget) is Lush. The store sells handmade cosmetics and has branches around the world.

© iStock

Lush bath bomb -

One of the store's most popular products is its bath bombs. 

Packed with essential oils, these bath bombs not only moisturize skin but turn into beautiful colors and fun bubbles when dropped into water. 

© iStock

Organic makeup brushes -

For your makeup-loving friends, buying them organic makeup brushes is a fabulous way to support their passion and do so consciously. 

In some stores it is possible to find makeup brushes made from recycled aluminium, bamboo, or even synthetic bristles. According to Travel for Difference, that is.

© iStock

House plants - It does not get any greener than house plants. Not only do they help us breathe, but they adorn any space with a pop of color and they breathe life into any room!

© iStock

Long-living house plants -

Cacti are a perfect gift for all green thumbs and plant lovers.

It's an easy plant to take care of and has a long life span, an ideal gift for friends you wish stay in your life forever.

© iStock

Degradable phone cover -

Almost everybody owns a phone, and although the devices are hard to make eco-friendly, there are ways to protect them with the planet in mind.

Biodegradable and plant-based phone covers are now a thing, and make for a fantastically sustainable and useful gift.

© iStock

E-readers -

This one is for your tech- and book-loving friends and family.

E-books and e-readers are not only ideal for saving trees, but are light and handy to carry around too. 

© Shutterstock

Eco-friendly wrapping paper -

Once you have all your gifts bought, it's time to wrap them up!

Continue with your eco-friendly and green theme and wrap your presents in recycled paper and natural materials.

© iStock

Homemade goodies -

If you are a natural baker (or not), making delicious goodies to give to your friends and family is a great homemade  gift to give for Christmas.

Not only does it remove the stress from finding a gift, but its a delicious way to feed your loved ones!

© iStock

Vacation at an eco lodge -

If you're more into gifting experiences, what about a weekend escape to an eco-friendly lodge or vacation home? 

© iStock

Bike rental subscription -

Many cities around the world have bicycle rentals that allow you to pick up, use, and park a bike all with the simple use of an app.

If you want to help reduce pollution, get your friends and family on the green road, and get them a membership for grab-and-go bicycles.

See also: Easy eco-friendly gift wrap alternatives. 

© iStock