Friends and relatives who are eco-friendly appreciate gifts that allow them to continue their green lifestyle. Even when you are not certain of how deeply a person’s commitment is to the ecology a green gift may have a very positive effect.

Some green gifts appreciated by everyone include:

Food Boxes or Bags

When one person or a couple take up residence at a new home it requires some time to ramp up such things as locating the pots and pans, filling the refrigerator and cabinets with groceries and in general getting back into the routine of everyday life. A gift of ready to eat and enjoy food – whether for a snack or a meal – is a treat because it requires no thought, planning or preparation on the part of the new homeowner. A box or bag made of recycled materials and filled to overflowing with freshly ground organic coffee, rich chocolate or tea is fast and simple to prepare. Organic sweets, snacks, crackers and cheese are available for the gift of food. Gifts for the home can contain organic shampoos and soaps given with recycled towel and washcloth sets for the bathroom.

Gift of Clean Air

Give the new homeowner the gift of clean air. Be prepared to spend a significant amount of money on a quality air purifier that has the capacity to filter the air efficiently for larger spaces. It’s important to keep air as pure and clean as possible – especially in the areas most lived in – to reduce allergens and other contaminants that may enter your home through the heating/air-conditioning system.

Handmade Furniture

Choose a local furniture maker who makes the furniture by hand from local woods. The furniture maker should also be conscious of, and not employ chemical dyes, oils or polishes that are not eco-friendly. When giving furniture it must not conflict with the homeowner’s current furniture décor scheme and also must be not only useful but also usable. Creative furniture makers specializing in handmade furniture produce beautiful pieces as well as some that are full of character but out of the mainstream of conventional design. Be certain to give a gift the homeowner is happy to display and use.