notes from a good gifter
(because it's not just the thought that counts)
Compiled by Arianna Gallup
Though I am usually a confident and happy person (especially when giving presents), I hung my head
in shame a few years ago when I learned that the gift wrap used by Americans generates over 4
million tons of trash. I had certainly contributed to that mess. Not to mention, all the bad gifts
I'd tossed, and piles and piles of "stocking stuffers" I'd sent straight to the landfill. I began
imagining shiny ropes of ribbon spinning round and round a choking earth and knew I had to make some
changes. I started small: recycled paper holiday cards, then reusable cloth gift bags – it was a
progression which has reached its logical conclusion here with the Green Gift List 2007.
The products included on this list are green in myriad ways, be it clever recycling, thoughtful
reinventions, fair-trade practices, charitable giving, green education or sustainable, renewable and
organic materials. Many are small businesses striving to be green in their work environment as
well, using green office products, minimal packaging, and acting as green leaders in their
communities. A few have even offered discounts for Redefine readers. Everything on the list is
something I would be confident giving, happy to receive and proud to support.
May your holidays be merry and at least some of your gifts be green.
For the Fashionista: Ella Vicker's Nauti Gear
One of a kind designer bags made from recycled sailcloth, get every kind of bag, from glam little
evening bags to yoga totes.
www.ellavickers.com
$34 to $118
(15% off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: EVSC09)
For the hipster: Reware Solar Panel Messenger Bags
Messenger bags with solar panels to power your pda, cell phone or mp3 player.
For the crafter: NearSea Naturals
A great resource for DIYers with its full line of organic and sustainable fabrics, notions and
yarns, my favorite items are the kits (make your own boxer shorts, hat and fingerless gloves, baby
clothes, ponchos, socks, etc.) which make excellent gifts for both the novice and the experienced
crafter.
www.nearseanaturals.com
$13 - $150
(5% off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: REDEF011218812)
For your Ex: Elephant Poop Cards
Send a card made from elephant poop. Wishing only the best... of course.
www.mrelliepooh.com
$4 each or 3 for $10!
(20% off online orders for Redefine readers until 12/20/07 with this code: redefine)
For Car Owners: The EcoTouch Starter Kit
This waterless car wash and polish is positively ingenious and strangely fun to use. It's also a
great gift for car owning city dwellers that can't wash their cars in their driveways. One bottle
can save up to 800 gallons of water! Get one for everyone on your list!
www.ecotouch.net
$19.99
(15% off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: Redefine15)
For Pet Lovers: Purrfect Play Toys And Accessories
Given that the difference between food and toy is not always readily apparent to our furry friends,
you can take comfort knowing that these toys are made without dyes or plastic. Beds, leashes, and more are also available.
www.purrfectplay.com
Most toys under $15!
20% off for Redefine readers on online orders using this code: 4011310285
For the Cook: Epicurean Cutting Boards
Dishwasher safe, won't dull knives and made from recycled paper! (Seriously, paper!)
For New Parents: Green To Grow Baby Bottles
Made from the "good" plastic --- no phthalates, no bisphenol A, no lead --- and the company will
help you recycle the bottles by connecting you with local non-profits in need of gently used baby
items. Check out their website for green parenting tips.
www.greentogrow.com
Starting from $7.49
(10% off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: redefine
For the Football Fan: Asgard Vintage Football Calendars
Twelve months of vintage football program covers from 40 of your favorite colleges printed on
recycled paper using soy inks. Each month's page is thoughtfully perforated for easy transfer to a
frame.
www.asgardpress.com
$18.95
(10% off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: redefine07)
For the Gardener: Cobrahead
$24.95, includes shipping!
Made in America from recycled materials, this ideal little digging tool was inspired by antique farm
equipment.
www.cobrahead.com
$24.95, includes shipping!
$3 off online orders for Redefine readers with this code: CHSO972
For the whole family: Save A Snowman
Global warming means the snowmen are melting; help out by adopting one or a whole family. You'll
receive an adoption certificate, photo of your snowman and a letter detailing the impact of climate
change in his hometown. Monies collected by this terribly clever non-profit organization are used
to promote eco-education in schools.
For Kids 18 months and Up: Earthfriends Dolls
Made from hemp, recylcled soda bottle stuffing, and organic cotton, each of the charming nine
characters come with a tree planting kit in its backpack. Get your first editions while you can
before these imminently collectible dolls start to grow like green cabbage.
For Kids 3 And Up: Imagiplay
When rubber trees stop giving sap they are burned! (I know!) The good people at Imagiplay couldn't
stand the thought either and started a fair trade company to harvest the dry trees to turn into
lovely and challenging puzzles, most under $15.
For Kids 8 And Up: Make Your Own Candy Kits From Glee Gum
Make your own chocolate, chewing gum, and gummy candies!
www.gleegum.com/promo.htm
$13
(15% off online orders for Redefine readers with code: redefine)
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