As Ramadan comes to a close, most of us are preparing for the upcoming celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim month of fasting. Part of the tradition includes exchanging gifts with loved ones and spending time with family and friends. To add an environmental slant to the celebration; this year consider purchasing products that are sustainable, ethically sourced or fair trade. Some suggestions from both Canadian and international retailers are listed below of products that not only make good gifts, but also minimize the impact on the environment.
Planet Forward is a company that offers a wide range of sustainable products from reusable shopping baskets to environmentally-friendly cleaning products. Their stainless steel water bottles are by far their most popular product which comes in several cleverly named colours. What makes this company even better is that a portion of their gross sales go towards supporting environmental organizations and their operations utilize clean, renewable energy offset by Bullfrog Power.
World Wildlife Fund Canada is one of the country’s leading conservation organizations whose goal is to prevent the degradation of the natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. Their online store offers several products that follow this mandate, such as organic clothing and books. They also offer ‘animal adoptions’ which includes a personalized certificate, a plush toy and details on the work this gift will support.
For those looking for unique gifts, Ten Thousand Villages offers a diverse range of fair trade and sustainable products. Each item comes with its own artisan story and is made by handicraft and agricultural organizations based in low-income countries. On their website you search for product by category, or you visit them in person at their stores located across the country.
Grassroots is a one-stop shop for every kind of environmental product you could imagine. Their selection includes clothing, stationary, electronics, beauty products and toys. Right now they have a back-to-school collection which is perfect for those looking for practical gifts for students. They also have a large selection of natural cleaning products, detergents and soaps for those with chemical sensitivities.
Etsy has recently come into the mainstream for those interested in purchasing handmade, one of a kind, or customizable products. It boasts artists from across the world, with many products oriented toward Muslims and Islamic holidays. These include sustainable amber bamboo earrings, birch eco-wood Eid cards and Japanese dolls made from Eco-felt, which are manufactured from recycled plastic bottles. Thanks to Zaufishan for these suggestions.