5 Great Holiday Gift Ideas for the Eco-Conscious

If you are looking for great gift ideas this Holiday Season for friends and family that embrace a greener lifestyle, or perhaps you yourself are committed to reducing your own carbon footprint, here are five ideas to consider:

1. From jewelry and handbags to eco-friendly home decor, gifts made from recycled, fair trade or sustainable materials, will be more appreciated by the eco-conscious on your gift list than items that are mass produced and made of plastic or other materials that are toxic to the earth. Luckily, there are many great online and brick-and-mortar stores that offer a variety of gifts and green products, and most are just a search engine away.

2. Organic bedding and linens are a good idea for a more practical gift. Check the tags or descriptions to ensure they are made from pure organic cotton or other natural fibers. For instance, an organic cotton towel set paired with a bamboo shower caddy - now there's a great gift!

3. Eco-friendly sports apparel and equipment can be a great choice for both sexes on your holiday list. From recycled golf tees to organic yoga clothing, canvas sports bags to eco-friendly hiking gear, there are more choices now that ever for the "greenies" on your list.

4. For your eco-friendly readers, a Kindle (from Amazon) or other wireless reading devices are a great gift that allows them to enjoy books, while refraining from contributing to the carbon footprint of publishing companies.

5. Make a donation to a charity in their name. Making a charitable contribution to a non-profit organization that supports free trade, environmental causes or in some way strives to make the earth more inhabitable for all, is a thoughtful gift idea that can have a lasting impact. Many charities allow you to make a contribution online, and will include a gift card.