The Only Sustainable, Small Business Gift Guide You Need

Illustration of green and blue pine trees in snow with a light green background and in red font: "The Annual Green America Holiday Gift Guide"

This article was written by Mathilda DeCosse.

Whether you love shopping for gifts or it’s your least favorite activity, this sustainable, small business gift guide is the perfect place to start. Use this list to do the work for you, or let it inspire you to browse more of the wonderful small shops in the Green Business Network directory. No matter where your gift giving journey takes you, feel great about giving to your loved ones and the planet.

Luxe Globe Roll on Bracelet

These stunning handmade bracelets from Aid Through Trade are a perfect gift for all jewelry lovers. Not only are these bracelets ($18) a beautiful addition to any outfit, each purchase directly supports the ethical, fair, and sustainable employment of women in developing countries. 

Personalized Whiskey Glass

Wooden whiskey tumbler with the name "Paul" engraved in gold, gothic font. The tumbler sits on logs with flames behind it.
Wooden whiskey tumbler in a gift box with straw; there's a print on the tumbler of the Game of Thrones quote, "I drink and I know things."

This personalized wooden whiskey glass ($51) from Ukranian business AltaadiR is the perfect gift for whiskey lovers! The beautiful rustic exterior, made from the wood of your choice (oak, walnut, beech, dark cedar), combined with the personal aspect of this glass is sure to impress this holiday season.

Handwoven Black & White Textured Tote

Upgrade your on-the-go bag to this sleek handwoven tote ($90) from Altiplano. Thoughtfully designed with multiple compartments for easy organization and a zipper for security, it's the perfect companion for any activity—whether you're running errands, commuting, or heading out for the weekend.

Eco Kids Finger Paint

Help your little ones get creative this holiday season! These finger paints ($18.99) from Altiplano are made with all-natural, food-safe ingredients and come in fun, vibrant colors. They are perfect for playtime that's safe for kids and the planet.

Unitea Glass Teapot

Help your loved ones brew their tea in style with this sleek glass teapot ($32) from Arbor Teas. The clear design is perfect for showing off blooming teas or just watching your favorite blend steep. This pot is dishwasher safe and incredibly easy to use. A beautiful and practical gift for any tea lover.

Breathe Nasal Inhaler

Winter can be harsh on the sinuses—Moxe Nasal Inhalers (on sale for $14.99, down from $19.99) offer natural relief. Made with 100% pure essential oils like peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus, they offer natural congestion relief while promoting relaxation. A simple, soothing gift for the season.

Pure Neem Wood Kitchen Utensils – Set of 3

Help your loved ones upgrade their kitchen with this beautifully crafted, eco-friendly utensil set ($30). Made from pure neem wood, these utensils are naturally antibacterial, durable, and gentle on cookware. Brush With Bamboo’s beautiful, yet practical gift is essential for sustainability minded home cooks.

Belt Bag rePETe + Refine

For hands-free errands, travel, or outdoor adventures, this lightweight belt bag ($29.99) from ChicoBag gets the job done without the environmental harm. It’s made from recycled materials, has just enough room for the essentials, and is washing machine safe. A practical, planet-friendly gift they’ll actually use.

Sip Savor and Love Kitchen Towels

Brighten up any space with this beautiful 100% organic cotton dish towel ($15.95) from EcoChoices. If birds aren't your favorite, no sweat! Explore other nature inspired designs on the EcoChoices website.

Baby Alpaca Scarf

If you have never experienced the incredible softness of baby alpaca wool, you're missing out! In addition to its incredible warmth, baby alpaca fleece is a humane alternative to factory farm cashmere. Treat yourself or your loved ones to a beautiful alpaca scarf ($69.90 or two for $119.00) from Fair Indigo

Tree of Life Wood Trivet

Hand-carved in Saharanpur, India, this tree inspired trivet is perfect for protecting your table from hot dishes, or simply as a decorative piece in your kitchen. Step up your kitchen look with the Tree of Life Wood Trivet ($28.95) from Fair Trade Winds.

Tea Collection Box

Nothing warms the body more than tea on a cool winter day. Explore six flavorful options, including English breakfast, rooibos, green, peppermint, hibiscus, and chai, from Equal Exchange with this variety tea collection box ($24.00), and gift a set to your tea loving friends! 

Collapsible Compost Bin

Do you have any friends who want to get into composting? Help them start their journey with this collapsible compost bin ($29.95) from Airnex. This sleek, odor proof bin is perfect for any home cooks hoping to be more sustainable going into the new year. 

There are hundreds more small, green businesses waiting for you in the Green Business Network Directory, all with amazing gift ideas you haven’t even thought of yet! Happy holidays to all.

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