10 Low/Zero Waste Gift Ideas

Christmas time. The time for giving and spreading joy. Sadly, with this joy giving also brings 30% more waste. As a country that produces around 300m tonnes of  waste anyway, reducing the amount of waste being produced seems like a no brainer. I know how much easier it is to simply give in to the 3 for 2 offers that seem to be hitting the stores now and simply buying the first wrapping paper you see on offer. I have been there and completely understand, BUT, if you haven't already done your Christmas shopping or want to make a change this year and help save this amazing planet, below are a few zero/low waste present ideas suitable for everyone. 

• Experiences - Virgin experience days have been a life saver for me and really do have an experience for EVERYBODY. I have used them for years and have never had an issue or bad experience. They have a wide range to choose from to suit all budgets and often provide heavy discounts you wouldn't find anywhere else. From spa days, holidays and driving experiences, why not give experiences a try?
• Skills - Kinda linked to experiences provide someone with the chance to learn a new skill. For example pay to do a new class together or sign them up for Skill Share or a similar system.
• Days out - I would much rather someone took me out for a meal, the cinema or simply took me on a dog walk then got me a present. Spending time with my friends sadly is not something I get to do often working in the health care service around Christmas so having someone make an effort to take time out of their busy schedule to try and fit into mine and spend their time with me means a lot more then a quick gift they would have picked up in a rush. 
• Food and drink - You really can't go wrong with food or drink. You know it will actually be used and produces very little waste. Its a win win. Plus, if you are lucky, they may even share it with you. 
• Candles - Christmas is the time for nice candles. Most candle jars can be reused so its like two presents in one right? 
• Books - Now I know this may not seem like a zero waste gift but books can be shared around with friends, donated easily and picked up second hand super cheap for those who are on a tight budget. Trust me, the teens and young adults in your life want all the 'coffee table books'. 
• Homeware - Homeware is so easy to get second hand (seriously if you can get all your gifts second hand think of how much you will be saving the planet!) and will rarely be not used. Especially if you get actually useful homeware gifts, such as baking equipment or as already mentioned candles. 
• Homemade - Anything homemade works; cake, cooking oil, a card from the kids. Anything that you had to put your time and love in makes a great gift. You don't need to even think outside of the box, just simply think of what they like and make your own version. A great gift for them and a fun activity/challenge for you and your family. 
• Plants - Crazy plant people are the latest trend and I am all for it! Plus they aren't expensive so perfect if you are on a budget this year. You could even decorate your own pot for the plant to add a more personal touch, go wild! 
• Zero waste essentials - It wouldn't be a zero waste gift guide if it didn't have zero waste essentials on the list. Reusable coffee mugs, cotton shoppers and bamboo straws always provide great gifts and is a great way to get more people into the low waste/zero waste movement. 

Who says the holidays can't be fun and low/zero waste?