Somerset Council

Ideas for greener gifting

Presents wrapped in brown paper

Image courtesy of Daniel Gregoire via Unsplash

Regifting doesn’t have to be a taboo, in fact, it’s a smart and sustainable way to celebrate the season. Instead of letting unused gifts gather dust, why not pass them on to someone who will truly appreciate them? By normalising regifting, we reduce waste and extend the life of perfectly good items. Let people know you’re happy for presents you give to be regifted when it’s time to pass it on.

Repair, don’t replace

Before buying new, consider giving a gift a second life with the help of a local repair group or repair café. These community initiatives bring people together to fix everything from toys and gadgets to clothes and bikes.

Repairing is a great way to learn new skills and connect with your community, why not make it part of your festive tradition?

There’s nothing second-rate about second-hand! Charity shops, vintage stores, and online marketplaces are treasure troves of unique, high-quality gifts with stories to tell.

Upcycled presents like jewellery made from reclaimed materials or homeware crafted from repurposed wood are both eco-friendly and full of character. For a creative touch, try making your own decorations or gifts from upcycled materials, such as turning old fabric into festive bunting or ornaments.