A Guide To Sustainable DIY Holiday Gifts

Do you know how much additional waste is created between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day? In America, waste increases by approximately 25% during the holiday season producing an additional 25 million tons into landfills and that’s just one country. Aside from choosing sustainable wrapping options this holiday season, you can also help reduce consumer waste by making your own sustainable DIY holiday gifts.

Choosing DIY gifts is a great way to reduce waste because you can choose to use sustainable materials, packaging, and wrapping. You can shop thrift stores for unique glass jars for packaging, use foraged materials from your own backyard and shop for ingredients free from chemicals. Making sustainable DIY holiday gifts also allows you the opportunity to create something meaningful that your recipient won’t have already received. These gift ideas make great sustainable holiday teacher gifts, holiday party favors and would be perfect for your holiday host or hostess. 

Also don’t forget to make a few extra gifts of whatever you create, this way you can avoid the need for any last minute shopping and falling into the trap of just buying anything for a last-minute gift. Don’t worry, even if you’re not super crafty, there are plenty of ways to make your own sustainable DIY holiday gifts with very minimal skill or effort.

Sustainable DIY Gifts For Personal Care Lovers

1. Bath Salts

By DIY in PDX

Typically a lot of bath kits and products come packaged in a ton of plastic, cellophane, and non-recyclable cardboard. The products themselves also usually contain a lot of artificial chemicals and dyes that are not actually good for your skin or the water supply chain. So instead, make your own bath salts infused with roses, lavender, or mint. This recipe uses only a few simple ingredients, and you can make these all up ahead of time before the holiday rush begins. 

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2. Shower Steamers

By Sustainable Cooks

If your gift recipient is more of a shower person, don’t worry; there’s a useful gift option for them too. This recipe for DIY shower steamers is a more natural, sustainable solution than traditional vapor rub and is great to gift in the winter months when colds and seasonal congestion are common. With three simple ingredients combined with the essential oils of your choice, these shower steamers would look great in a glass jar with jute twine and a personalized gift tag.

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3. Reusable Tea Bags

By Hello Sewing

Encourage your friends and family to slow down with a nice cup of tea to enjoy a quiet moment amidst the chaos of the holidays. Tea bags are filled with dozens of microplastics and nano-plastics that are harmful to our bodies and the environment. If you have a tea lover on your gift list, these reusable tea bags are so easy to make you don’t need a pattern and can even sew them by hand. This is a great way to upcycle leftover fabric from other projects, and you can gift this with some of your favorite loose-leaf tea for them to try. 

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Sustainable DIY Gifts For Homebodies

4. Pressed Flower Candlesticks

By Little Pine Learners

Candlesticks are a timeless classic in home decor, but this DIY project has been featured on all of the interior design feeds and blogs lately. Usually, decorated candlesticks are more of a splurge when bought in-store, but these are so simple to make that you will probably find yourself wanting to make these for every holiday. Using a little melted wax as your glue and sealant, you can select the flowers or botanicals used to suit each recipient's personal style and decor. If you have little ones at home, they can help forage for flowers, leaves, or greenery to use, and it is a great way to include the whole family.

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5. Stovetop Potpourri

By The Eco Hub

Give the gift of a cozy atmosphere for the holidays!

This stovetop potpourri looks great packaged in a mason jar, and all you have to do to use it is add water and simmer on the stovetop or in a crockpot.

Using natural ingredients like dried oranges and various spices and herbs, your recipient will have the heavenly smell of the holidays whenever they want.

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6. Festive Wreath

By Hearth and Vine

Nothing says decking the halls like hanging up a festive wreath indoors or outdoors. Making a festive wreath is an easy way to repurpose foraged materials into beautiful home decor. If you are not finding the natural materials you want outside, check a local garden nursery or craft store for a wreath that will be able to be reused year after year. You can create the wreath as minimal or embellished as you think your recipient would enjoy.

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7. Macrame Ornaments

By Macrame For Beginners

Pass on gifting molded plastic ornaments, and try making your own! Thanks to Macrame For Beginners, you can try 15 different holiday patterns for macrame ornaments. Traditionally, macrame uses hemp or jute cording, which is a more sustainable material for crafting. There are a lot of different techniques and patterns that are mainly just tying knots, so don’t worry if you’re not a super crafter. These ornaments look beautiful hanging on a tree, and your recipient will be able to enjoy them for years to come. 

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Sustainable DIY Gifts For The Aspiring Chef

Consumable gifts are a sustainable option because they can be used up and when made at home you can ensure the packaging is reusable or recyclable.

8. Finishing Salts

By Getty Stewart

Many gourmet recipes use finishing salts for added flavor and flair, but they’re typically expensive and not something many people keep on hand. These finishing salt recipes will last stored in a decorative glass jar and add a special touch to any recipe. You can customize the flavors to be sweet and savory or make a couple of both for a variety set. If you are in a hurry, don’t worry; there is an oven and microwave option in case you need a great gift in a hurry.

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9. Homemade Vanilla Extract

By The Daring Gourmet

Vanilla extract is an ingredient almost everyone uses in their holiday baking, so this recipe for homemade vanilla extract is sure to be a hit! Daring Gourmet is a great resource for the quality of ingredients required for the best extract and which vanilla beans produce different flavors.

This is a gift you will want to start in advance because it gets better as it ages but if you need you can always make a note with the date it can be used for optimal potency.

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10. Candied Nuts

By Sustainable Cooks

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire isn't just the opening line of a Nat King Cole classic; it's one of the many delightful seasonal flavors popular this time of year. All it takes is a little caramelized sugar, and you will have yourself a gift everyone will be begging for again and again. What's great about candied nuts is you can make this a nut variety or select your recipient's favorite and package it in a beautiful jar they can reuse after they've devoured all the candied nuts. This is a crowd favorite because it is delicious and simple to make. I always like to pair a filled jar with a thoughtful handwritten note and the recipe because, yes, they will be asking for it!

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11. Soup Mix In A Jar

By Wholefully

The holidays are always filled with cookies and decadent treats, so if you want something different, gift a ready-made soup mix! Since all the ingredients are shelf stable, your recipient can save their soup until after the holidays and think of you when they make it or have a nourishing meal ready to go during the hustle and bustle of the season. Plus, winter is prime soup season and perfect for a cold winter evening when you’re tired of holiday leftovers. 

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective,

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Image: Hannah

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Non-Toxic & Organic Menstrual Pads

Have you ever thought about how much waste is created from period products? Just from one person who menstruates, over 12,000 pads are used in their lifetime. While there are options like menstrual cups or absorbent period underwear, those options don’t always work for everyone. While those are the most commonly marketed options for an eco-friendly period, that is not the only way to reduce waste when it comes to your period. Pads can be made sustainably, too! I rounded up some of the best sustainable period pad options so you can be prepared for your next period.

How do I make my period sustainable?

Choosing a reusable pad is one of the easiest way to make your period sustainable. Since they are able to be washed and reused, there is less heading to landfills or oceans. There is also less packaging required so aside from just the pad, you are also reducing waste by eliminating the need for individual plastic wrappers and outer packaging. However, not everyone feels comfortable with a reusable pad so there are ways to make your period more sustainable with disposable pads as well that are still more eco-friendly for the environment and healthier for your body. Look for pads with 100% organic cotton and free from chlorine and fragrances. Conventional pads are usually made of mostly plastic and filled with toxic chemicals so look for companies that are transparent with their ingredients.

Keep in mind, just because a pad is reusable, doesn’t mean it is always sustainable. While it will be better than single use products, some reusable pads are made from synthetic materials like polyester and spandex. They also don’t always manufacture ethically so keep this in mind when considering where you shop.

Since every body is different and we all have our preferences, make sure to check out these 3 posts: 9 Period Underwear Brands, 11 Organic Tampons for a Non-Toxic Period and 8 Sustainable Swaps for a Zero Waste Period.

Why are Non-Toxic period pads important?

For you and the environment, sustainable period pads are important because of the toxins in them and the toxins they add to the environment. Conventional pads are filled with plastics, even though they are marketed to be pure cottony clouds. Then when actual cotton is used, the cotton was treated with pesticides then bleached with chlorine. Since leakage is often a period pad consumer’s biggest concern, companies began using superabsorbent polymers or SAPs. These synthetic materials are designed to hold large amounts of liquid but also are known to cause many health complications including reproductive, hormonal, and immune system issues among many others. There is also no regulation of ingredients required for period products so you never fully know what you’re putting on your body. All of these harmful ingredients near your most sensitive areas are not good for your health.

From an environmental perspective, pads are a major contributor to landfill waste. Did you know approximately 12 billion pads are added to United States landfills each year? As we now know, most pads are made from primarily plastic materials then individually wrapped in plastic, and then again packaged in... you guessed it, more plastic! That is a lot of plastic that will never degrade and forever live in our ecosystem.

Sustainable period pads are also more cost effective. For those with limited budgets, having reusable sustainable options are actually more viable because they last about 5 years, usually more when washed and cared for properly. This can mean the difference between having access to period care products and not for some people who could not otherwise afford the monthly expense.

Click here to read about toxic chemicals found in Tampons.

How do I shop for Non-Toxic pads?

When you are stocking up for your next period cycle, here is what you want to look for when looking for sustainable period pads. Check that the ingredients are listed, reputable companies have no problem disclosing what is in their products. They should be proud to share all information and if no materials information is labeled, they are most likely made from plastic. The pads should be 100% organic unbleached cotton, sometimes hemp or bamboo are used. Sustainable period pads should also be free from fragrance, dyes, chemicals, chlorine and dioxin. Dioxin is a byproduct of chlorine and known to disrupt endocrine system and reproductive health.

We’ve also made sure to include some disposable pads since they may be more practical if you are traveling or have little access to washing them.

Our Top Picks for Non-Toxic Menstrual Pads:

Sustainable, Reusable Pads

1. Hannah

Price: $20 - 32 (3-pack)

Hannah is a brand that offers both reusable and disposable pad options. The reusable pads are made from organic cotton and designed to prevent leaks with their stitching. Free from toxins, fragrances and certified by Dermatest. With a variety of patterns and full range of pad sizes from thong to overnight, Hannah offers a great variety! The disposable pads are held to the same standard with no toxins, dyes, or chemicals and use only organic cotton. They are available in three sizes regular, large and overnight.

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2. Rael

Price: $37 - 40 (3-pack)

Rael offers reusable organic cotton pads in four sizes; petite, regular, large and overnight. They stay put with wings fastened with a metal snap. Free from PFA's and other harsh chemicals, Rael believes in using only natural ingredients for a natural body. While Rael does have a disposable pad line, it is not as sustainable as other options on this list. They don’t use plastic wrappers, but they do utilize SAPs in their anti-leak cores.

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3. GladRags

Price: $15 - 30

GladRags pads are made in the USA and free from irritating synthetics and chemical gels. Not all pads are organic cotton but it is clearly marked on each product listing so you can select accordingly. As a woman owned company, their company mission is to positively transform the experience of menstruation through reusable menstrual products & relevant education.

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4. Period Co

Price: $20 (5-pack)

Discover one of the most affordable reusable pads available, designed with your comfort and health in mind. Unlike traditional disposable pads, Period Co. offers a sustainable alternative that you can use time and again, all while being completely toxin-free. Say goodbye to harmful plastic and harsh bleach—these pads are crafted from soft, organic cotton that ensures a gentle feel against your skin.

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5. Smartliners

Price: $16

These reusable menstrual pads by Smartliners are made from certified organic cotton, and without any of the plastic layers or toxic adhesives you find in conventional disposable liners. They are ultra-absorbent and come with a travel and wash pouch. Just throw them in your normal laundry when you are done!

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Disposable Period Pad Options

Sometimes a disposable pad is just more realistic for your lifestyle whether it's that particular day or season of life. Since washing can require more time, or you are not comfortable if in a public setting, there is a way to make a more sustainable choice with single use pads.
Here are some great companies that offer more sustainable disposable period pad options!

1. Lola

Price: $10 - 12

Lola is a women-founded company that prioritizes high quality ingredients for all their products. Their disposable pads are made from 100% organic cotton for the topsheet and core, plant-based bioplastic for the backsheet, and adhesives that are non-toxic. Their pads are gynecologist-approved and available for underwear sizes XS to 5XL. They also work to close the gap between reproductive inequity and provide period products for those in need.

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2. Natracare

Price: $16 - 18

Since 1989, Natracare products have been made without plastics, perfumes and chlorine. Their pads are made from renewable materials like 100% organic cotton and PEFC certified wood pulp, which are naturally absorbent, waterproof, breathable and soft. The leak-proof layer of their pads is a home compostable, certified biopolymer made from GM-free plant starch, a renewable resource.

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3. Organyc

Price: $6 - 8

Created with people and the planet at the forefront, Organyc pads are made using green manufacturing including geothermal, solar and natural energy. There is no plastic in any of the pad or any of the packaging and they are made with 100% certified organic cotton. All of their products are clinically proven to improve sensitive skin irritation usually caused from conventional pads.

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4. Flo

Price: $6 - 10

These pads are made with 100% organic Oeko-Tex bamboo and use compostable wrappers. All of the outer packaging is made of FCS-certified recyclable cardboard. Flo is also working on eliminating plastics in their supply chain and to make all products Co2 neutral by the end of 2021. This forward thinking company is woman owned and women led and strives to be inclusive of their brand messaging.

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5. Athena Club

Price: $9

Athena Club offers 100% organic cotton pads with a biodegradable adhesive and wrapper. There are no dyes or toxins used in any of their products. The Athena Club mission is to provide self care products with higher quality standards that are better for the environment and affordable for everyone.

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Sources:

• Safe Cosmetics

• GladRags

• Zero Waste Europe

• WebMD

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About the Author:

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective.

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Sustainable, Innovative Fabrics We Love

While fast fashion and synthetic fabrics are usually the trends making headlines, innovative fabrics are still making their way into mainstream fashion. By using natural resources and recycling the typically discarded materials, eco-friendly textiles have the potential to change the clothing industry and their production. From fruit and vegetables to the ocean, forward-thinking brands are finding more and more ways to repurpose organic resources, here are 6 innovative fabrics to watch out for!

Our Favorite Innovative Fabrics For 2024:

Image: Stella McCartney

1. MIRUM®

This plant-based material utilizes coconut fiber, natural rubber, and cork to replicate a texture similar to leather. It is completely free from plastic, fully biodegradable, and can be customized for a specific feel or durability. Minimum water and energy are needed to create the material, making it a more sustainable option.

We have a whole post dedicated to this textile if you want to read more!

How it can be used: car interiors, furniture, accessories, shoes, and clothing.

Image: Stella McCartney

2. Bananatex®

Created as the world’s first biodegradable and regeneratively grown fabric made from Abacá banana plants. This durable fiber uses a part of the plant that typically goes to waste, but the banana fiber is very strong, naturally water-resistant, and functional for various uses. Bananatex is already making its way into mainstream fashion and is being used by popular brands like Stella McCartney, Balenciaga, and COS. You can watch the full process in their short film "A Textile (R)evolution"

How it can be used: backpacks, suitcases, tech accessories, shoes, outdoor gear, and clothing.

Image: Drew Veloric

3. Orange Fiber

Who knew citrus peels were high fashion? Orange Fiber is a patented process and brand that creates textiles from citrus fruit discards that can be used as a biodegradable alternative to silk. Already squeezing its way into luxury fashion brands like Salvatore Ferragamo, this innovative fabric also provides an opportunity to reduce food industry waste.

How it can be used: scarves, blouses, drapery, pillows, interior handbag linings.

Image: Hublot

4. S.Café®

By using recycled coffee grounds and plastic, S.Cafe is a new solvent-free, UV-resistant, moisture-wicking innovative fabric. It also has natural odor control, can be spun into yarn, and reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional carbonized materials. Creating S.Cafe fabrics allows an alternative use for coffee waste and turns it into a new resource. S.Cafe is widely versatile, with the ability to be made into fleece, thermal, and outdoor wear membrane materials while maintaining the same sustainable process. The technology was invented by Singtex in 2008 and has already received recognition from the top three global invention award organizations. 

How it can be used: luggage, bedding, shoes, accessories, outdoor gear, and clothing.

5. OYSTEX

Created by the clothing brand Jetty, OYSTEX is bringing the ocean to your closet. By combining ground oyster shells, recycled plastic, and natural fibers, OYSTEX is created for functional performance fabric. It is anti-static, anti-odor, breathable, and moisture-wicking. OYSTEX makes a way to reduce seafood industry waste and create an innovative fabric from what is typically viewed as trash. While natural oyster shell waste isn’t much of an environmental concern, when large quantities of shells are dumped back into the ocean, it causes severe ecosystem disruption. On land, oyster shells take several years to break down, resulting in the quick filling of landfills. 

How it can be used: clothing, activewear, outdoor gear.

6. Fibe

Just when we thought there was no other way to use a potato, Fibe proves us wrong. Skip mashed, baked, fried, and distilled potato fiber is one of the newest innovative fabrics on the scene. With the patent-pending technology, Fibe claims the fabric could replace and have the capacity to fulfill up to 70% of the world’s demand for natural fiber. Created from the unusable stems and leaves of the potato, Fibe has the potential to change the fashion and agricultural industry. Fibe is biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable, making it an exciting alternative to synthetic fabric.

How it can be used: everyday clothing and apparel. 

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram.

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10 Easy Sustainable Gardening Tips

Whether you are looking to create a dreamy cottage-inspired garden or grow your own food, home gardening provides plenty of opportunity to incorporate more sustainable practices. Home and urban gardens have shown to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are also a way to support the essential pollinators. To help you make the most of your yard, here are 10 sustainable gardening tips that encompass everything from soil health and water conservation to plant selection and wildlife support.

Our Favorite 10 Sustainable Gardening Tips:

1. Plant Native Species

Since native plants are naturally adapted to your region’s climate, they are more resilient against drought, soil types, and diseases. If you don’t know your region’s plant hardiness zone, check out the map from the USDA.

2. Seek Out Drought-Tolerant Plants 

Not only will native species more easily thrive in your garden, but utilizing drought-tolerant plants will require less daily maintenance and resources. By reducing the need for additional continual water consumption, you will be saving water and time. This is especially important if you live in a dry or desert climate.

3. Collect Rainwater

You can use barrels or cisterns to collect rainwater for gardening to reduce your dependency on local water resources. This can also help lowers your water bill. However, be sure to check your state’s policies regarding what is legal for your area. Some states have incentive programs for rainwater harvesting but may require specific regulations.

4. Check the Time Before You Water

When you water your garden early in the morning, it reduces the evaporation, and the soil is more likely to absorb the water better and reduce water waste. Using a drip irrigation system is even better since it allows for deeper watering and avoids getting plant foliage wet, which helps prevent common leaf diseases.

5. Make Your Own Compost

You can utilize most of your kitchen scraps, lawn clippings and leaves, and cardboard to create free compost for your garden. Compost is helpful to add nutrients to the soil and promote healthy, happy plants.

6. Utilize Organic Mulch

Adding in organic mulch like wood chips or straw will enrich the soil as it decomposes. Mulch will also help regulate the soil temperature, prevent evaporation and slow down weed growth. Just be sure to leave a circle a few inches away from new plants and roots until they are more established.

7. Use Renewable Materials

If you need a trellis, garden stake or garden border, using recycled or sustainably sourced materials is the way to go. Bamboo or reclaimed wood are better alternatives to traditional chemical treated lumber or plastic.  

8. Stay Away from Pesticides

Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are harmful to soil, insects and wildlife. Try utilizing more natural pest deterrent methods like companion planting or incorporating beneficial insects. Depending on the type of pest, DIY recipes with natural ingredients in your kitchen may also be effective. 

9. Prioritize Perennials

Since perennials return year after year, you won’t need to replant as often. They typically have deeper roots, which helps reduce the need for water, absorbs carbon dioxide, and preserves the soil health.

10. Support the Wildlife

Bring more species to your garden or yard by adding birdhouses, bat houses, or insect-friendly habitats as these are all important to sustain a healthy ecosystem. A strong biodiverse environment will attract more good garden insects and wildlife.

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com

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WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

The Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Planners and Notebooks

Almost one billion trees worth of paper is thrown away in a single year in America, and that’s just in the U.S. Paper waste alone accounts for a quarter of landfill waste, so how do we help? Knowing what to look for when shopping for paper-focused products, like planners and notebooks, and selecting a tree-free paper alternative when possible is a great place to start. 

What does FSC-certified mean?

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification means the wood used to create the product was harvested ethically and responsibly. However, FSC-certified wood only applies to virgin wood, so while the harvesting and forestry process may be more responsible, the products made from the wood still may not be. As always, no label should be trusted blindly. Be sure to research the individual company ethics and policies before deciding if the product you are considering purchasing meets your personal criteria for sustainability.

Does sustainable paper exist?

There are sustainable paper options, some completely tree-free and others that at least minimize the tree pulp needed. Recycled paper is not tree-free and is typically not 100% post-consumer recycled material. Most recycled paper uses a combination of recycled and virgin tree pulp, so while it is an improvement, don’t be fooled by greenwashing. Companies are required to list the percentage of recycled material in their paper and look for as close to 100% as possible when considering recycled paper. When purchasing a product like planners or notebooks, it may be harder to trace the paper composition. A better sustainable paper option is a fully tree-free material like the increasingly popular stone paper.

What is stone paper?

Stone paper uses ground stone, usually limestone and marble, processed into a smooth paper-like material. The stone fragments are typically sourced from the construction industry, where there is a surplus of leftover stone materials. When ground and processed into paper, it becomes a hydrophobic material that is waterproof and tearproof. It also has a smooth eggshell-like feel that allows pens and pencils to glide smoother than standard paper. Artists love stone paper for its high-quality composition, allowing their designs and drawings to appear richer than traditional paper. Writers love stone paper for its durability. Stone paper manufacturing is also more Earth-friendly as it requires no water or chemicals and uses waste material.

While there is never a perfect solution when it comes to sustainability, there are at least better options and these companies make use of the more sustainable options for planners and notebooks.

our favorite sustainable notebooks & planners:

1. agood Company 

Using stone paper, agood Company offers notebooks, journals, and pocket diaries that are stylish and sustainable. agood Company is B Corp certified and provides a breakdown of the environmental footprint associated with each product and part of its production chain. To be as sustainable as possible, they utilize climate-neutral shipping by compensating for transport, choosing environmentally-friendly raw materials, and packaging all products responsibly. agood Company also created a plant-a-tree initiative with WeForest and a foundation to support sustainability efforts in communities around the globe. For anyone who wants their purchase to go beyond a pretty planner or notebook, agood Company provides a simple, sustainable solution.

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2. Karst

Karst wants to disrupt the paper industry, so this company created a tree-free solution, paper made from recycled stone. This makes their paper smooth, tear-resistant, waterproof, and sustainable for our planet. Karst also partners with One Tree Planted and is a certified B Corp company. Notebooks are available lined, dotted, blank or with a grid. The planners are available in weekly or daily formats. Also available are sketchbooks, notepads, and tree-free pencils. Karst is for a notebook aficionado who appreciates thoughtful design.

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3. Papier

Created with sustainably sourced paper and using recycled packaging, Papier is known for seasonal collections and unique designs. They often team up with artists to bring their talents to Papier products for products you won’t find anywhere else. The planners are available in a variety of formats from yearly, monthly, daily and academic. The journals are available in classic or specialized formats for recipes, wellness, travel, gratitude, or standard and come lined, plain or specific for list-makers. Papier is perfect if you are looking for a more sustainable planner or journal that is beautiful inside and out.

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4. Dingbats*

At Dingbats*, all materials used for their journals are biodegradable, vegan, and recyclable.

Notebooks feature minimal nature and animal motifs on their faux leather covers and are V-label certified, which means no animal-based adhesives are used in their products.

The inside pages are acid-free, fountain-friendly, FSC-certified paper that lays flat for optimal writing, especially for lefties. Dingbats* offers a simple and minimal selection that puts the Earth and animals first. 

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5. Wisdom Supply Co

Created by two women frustrated with the amount of plastic and waste on the planet, especially associated with school supplies. Wisdom Supply Co makes fully recyclable notebooks and planners that are zero waste and made in the USA. As a certified B Corp, sustainable practices are upheld throughout production, and all orders are shipped plastic-free. Also available are zero waste binders, folders, dividers, and planners made with students and teachers in mind. So if you love back-to-school shopping but want to do it more sustainably, Wisdom Supply Co is a great place to start!

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6. Five Minute Journal

Transform your life with the Five Minute Journal. Spending just five minutes a day practicing gratitude can boost positivity, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being, even on the busiest of days. This approach is the simplest and scientifically backed way to a happier you. With the Five Minute Journal, you can practice mindfulness and gratitude journaling, while also taking advantage of additional features that traditional journals do not provide. The journal is made with 100% recycled, compostable and FSC-Certified paper and bound in linen fabric.

Five Minute Journal is available for iOS and Android, as well.

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7. Green Dreamer

Currently offering physical and digital planning options, Green Dreamer combines mindfulness and goalsetting in its planners.

The inside planner pages are made of recycled paper and feature a hardcover that is bound by recycled kraft paper.

You can also add an optional book cloth cover that is made from 100% recycled cotton.

While Green Dreamer is phasing out the physical planners, you will still be able to purchase the planner template to download.

The template features a minimalist and versatile design using undated monthly and weekly formats, and it even includes important social and eco-awareness dates. In addition, green Dreamer is a cost-effective option as their digital download is less expensive than traditional planners, and you can print it on your own sustainably-made paper.

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8. Gitchi Adventure Goods

If you or someone you know is always in search of their next adventure, Gitchi Adventure Goods makes journals to keep track of it all.

A small notebook made in the USA that will easily fit in a backpack so you can keep it with you on the go.

Gitchi Adventure notebooks are made with 100% post-consumer recycled paper that is FSC® and Green Seal® Certified and made with 100% renewable electricity. 

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Digital Planners and Notebooks

For all the digital planners and writers, there are some digital planning and notebook options created with you in mind.

1. reMarkable

reMarkable is as close to a digital notebook as it gets.

The creators of reMarkable had one goal, to create the best paper-like experience possible with the limitless connection that modern technology provides.

With reMarkable, your handwritten notes can be converted into text that syncs to your cloud, phone, or laptop. It is the thinnest tablet available, so you have a similar pencil-on-paper experience.

Since reMarkable was made for writing, it doesn’t come with the typical distractions regular tablets do, so you stay focused and organized. No trees are required, and your writing or planning experience is as close as it can get to using a traditional notebook.

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2. Notion

If you type notion in on YouTube, you’ll have a plethora of ways to customize this digital workspace.

You can use it as a planner, project manager, or journal; it is used by large companies and students alike to keep organized and capture thoughts. Digital planners love Notion because you can add custom templates, habit tracking, digital stickers and make it look and feel just like a regular planner. Notion is available for iOS, Android, and desktop.

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3. GoodNotes

If you dive into the digital note-keeping and planning space, chances are you’ve heard of GoodNotes.

An app that allows you to use your iPad as a journal and planner.

You can add as many notebooks as you want, all stored in one spot and synced with the cloud.

While only available for iPad users, it is a powerhouse app if you already have access to an iPad or Mac. 

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4. DayOne

If you’ve always wanted to be a journaler but never stuck with it, DayOne is for you!

Keep your thoughts and experiences together with text, audio, photo, and video all in one place.

Elegant and easy to navigate, DayOne allows you to maintain ownership of your data, keeps it safe and encrypted for you, and you can access it on any device.

DayOne is available for iOS, Android, and desktop.

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com.

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