Mastering the Art of Sustainable Corporate Gifts: Unforgettable Eco-Presents
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Eco-friendly company gifts offer a wonderful avenue for forging connections with employees, potential customers, and partners.
These tokens of appreciation provide a unique opportunity to establish meaningful connections with those who hold your business in high regard.
Your choice of gifts speaks volumes about your values and the depth of your appreciation. Given this, eco-conscious gifts have become an essential choice.
According to a recent survey conducted by Coresight, a remarkable two-thirds of respondents have had the pleasure of receiving gifts from their organizations.
These gifts typically serve as expressions of gratitude towards employees or as markers of significant milestones, such as work anniversaries. This trend has consistently ranked at the pinnacle of gifting preferences, much like in a previous survey conducted in 2021.
However, here’s where it gets intriguing: a notable 52% of survey participants disclosed to Coresight that they extend their gift-giving endeavors beyond their workforce to encompass clients and partners.
This reflects a substantial 3 percentage point increase compared to Coresight’s 2021 survey results. Evidently, the gesture of showing appreciation to clients and partners is steadily gaining ground, surpassing even the holiday season, which was the second most common occasion for giving gifts last year.
If you are in a rush, take a look at the list below.
Why Give Sustainable Corporate Gifts?
Whether you’re selecting a gift for a dear friend, a valued colleague, or a casual acquaintance, placing eco-friendliness at the forefront of your choices is not just commendable but essential. However, the transformative influence of eco-friendly gifts takes on even greater significance when businesses wholeheartedly embrace sustainable gifting as a core principle.
In a recent study conducted jointly by IBM and the National Retail Federation, the findings were resounding: approximately 70% of consumers in the United States and Canada emphasize the significance of sustainability and eco-friendliness when evaluating a brand.
In an era marked by escalating climate change impacts, our collective awareness of our planet’s fragility is growing. More and more individuals are actively making choices that align with environmental preservation rather than contributing to its degradation.
What makes a product eco-friendly?
For your eco-conscious corporate gifting checklist, it’s always beneficial to consider if the item is:
Low Impact
A low-impact sustainable product is one that has been designed and produced with a minimal negative effect on the environment throughout its entire lifecycle. Several factors contribute to making a product “low-impact” in terms of sustainability.
1. Resource Efficiency
The product should be designed to use fewer natural resources in its production. This includes using less water, energy, and raw materials. Efficient manufacturing processes and materials that are sourced responsibly can help achieve this.
2. Eco-friendly Materials
Low-impact products often use materials that are renewable, recyclable, biodegradable, or have a minimal environmental footprint. For example, using organic cotton instead of conventional cotton or recycled plastics instead of virgin plastics.
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint
A low-impact product should aim to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, both in production and transportation. This can be achieved by using clean energy sources, optimizing transportation routes, and minimizing emissions during production.
4. Longevity and Durability
Products that last longer and require fewer replacements are considered more sustainable. Designing products with durability in mind can reduce the need for frequent replacements and the associated waste.
5. Repairability and Upgradability
Products that are easy to repair, upgrade, or refurbish extend their lifespan and reduce waste. This encourages consumers to keep using the same product for a longer time.
6. Minimal Packaging
Sustainable products often have minimal or eco-friendly packaging to reduce waste. Packaging should be designed to be easily recyclable or compostable.
Ultimately, a low-impact sustainable product takes into account the environmental, social, and economic aspects of its production and use. It aims to minimize harm to the planet and, ideally, have a positive impact on society and the environment.
Business Gift Giving Considerations
The ideal sustainable corporate gifts should align with the following criteria:
Alignment with Company Values:
Your choice of gifts should resonate with your company’s values. If your business champions reducing plastic usage in the workplace, consider offering reusable glass coffee cups or beeswax wraps. This not only showcases your commitment to the cause but also provides a practical item.
Reflect the Relationship Quality:
When selecting gifts, consider the quality of your relationship with the recipient. For top clients and individuals like VPs and executives, it may be appropriate to offer higher-value gifts that reflect their significant contributions. However, prioritize quality over quantity.
Adherence to Company Policies:
Some companies have specific guidelines regarding the value of gifts employees can accept. It’s crucial to acquaint yourself with these policies, especially when giving gifts outside your own organization.
Personalization:
Adding a personal note of appreciation or a heartfelt greeting to your gift’s card can significantly enhance its sincerity. A handwritten message reinforces the connection between the gift and the recipient.
Artful Presentation:
The presentation of the gift plays a role in its perceived value. Taking care in how you wrap or present the gift can elevate its overall impact. Skimping on the packaging can diminish the value of what’s inside.
Practicality:
Think about the practicality of the gift. Opt for items that are useful to the recipient, ensuring they will genuinely benefit from the gesture.
Avoid Over-Branding:
While branding gifts with your company logo or message was once common practice, it’s essential to strike a balance. Some branded gifts can convey the message that you’re more interested in promoting your company than genuinely thanking the recipient. Consider whether it’s a gift, a promotional item, or a marketing opportunity.
Occasion Flexibility:
Corporate gifting doesn’t need to be limited to holiday seasons. Consider giving gifts for New Year’s or even birthdays as a way to add a personal touch and avoid getting lost in the holiday gift rush.
By adhering to these criteria, you can select sustainable corporate gifts that not only reflect your values but also strengthen your relationships with clients, partners, and team members while making a positive and memorable impression.
Our Personalized Sustainable Corporate Gift List
To assist your brand in attracting clients, customers, and advocates, we’ve assembled a catalog of eco-friendly corporate gifts that align with nature, promoting health and sustainability in 2023.
Gift boxes are surprise bundles of joy for every occasion! Imagine a beautifully curated selection of goodies, elegantly packaged and ready to dazzle. There’s a personalized gift box to match every personality type.
Whether it’s gourmet treats, skincare treasures, or even unique experiences, these boxes are versatile and memorable.
Why stress over picking individual gifts when you can gift a little box of happiness?
Earthhero offers a wide range of gift boxes curated for every kind of person. And here’s the exciting part: Earthhero is ready to craft a unique gift box just for you. You have the power to handpick sustainable products that can be personalized with your company’s branding or tailored to meet the specific preferences of the lucky recipient. Your possibilities are virtually endless when creating a meaningful and customized gift experience.
Here are some of Earthhero’s more popular gift boxes:
The perfect gift box for team members who are taking weekend trips to the outdoors. Sustainable products in this box will allow the recipient to be eco-friendly easily.
Self-care is top of mind for many individuals striving to create a harmonious mixture of work and life balance. This gift box reminds team members or clients to celebrate their success with a soothing cup of tea and a soy candle.
For team members or clients who have a travel bug or are often traveling for work, this sustainable gift box has all the essentials for easy travel.
With sustainably harvested coffee and tea, this gift will be a perfect energy boost for all team members and clients.
The horizon of possibilities stretches boundlessly when it comes to customizable gift boxes. While the gift boxes mentioned above are among some of the most sought-after, rest assured that Earthhero boasts an expansive catalog teeming with a plethora of choices for you to explore and select from. Your imagination is the only limit when creating a unique and tailored gift experience.
2. Personalized Eco-Friendly Essentials
Everyday items continue to be a wonderful gift. They are staples for a reason. Finding practical and eco-friendly products can be a thoughtful option for individuals who don’t want clutter and sometimes forget how the little things can make a meaningful impact.
Every year, Americans go through an astounding 100 billion plastic bags! The motivation to move away from plastic continues to grow. The Hudson Canvas Tote from Eco Bags is a beautiful plastic-free alternative. It’s the perfect gift to replace those non-recyclable, single-use shopping bags and make a positive impact.
You can customize the tote with your company logo, creating a powerful statement. The tote is crafted from recycled cotton sourced from post-consumer and post-industrial cotton scraps, making it an eco-conscious choice.
Plus, it actively promotes fair wages and ethical labor practices throughout Eco-Bags’ supply chain.
Are you a fan of the timeless pen-and-paper note-taking method? You’re in good company! Research reveals that handwritten notes engage multiple brain regions, enhancing long-term memory and cognitive function. That’s where the Lined Stone Paper Notebook from Agood Company comes into play, and it’s no surprise why it’s a top choice for corporate gifting.
This remarkable notebook is crafted from sustainable stone paper, derived from repurposed stones sourced from construction and factories. It lays flat for effortless note-taking, boasts water-resistant properties, and showcases exceptional durability. Printed with non-toxic soy ink, this stone paper notebook comprises a substantial 144 pages, with no trace of wood pulp, water, or additional chemicals. In addition, for every purchase, Agood Company plants trees in Africa to offset carbon emissions from production—a gesture that contributes to a greener planet.
Elevate the appeal by adding your company’s logo to the notebook’s front cover, effectively bolstering brand recognition and nurturing relationships. It’s the perfect gift for an appreciated client or employee: sustainable, practical, and a gentle reminder of your company’s values, all wrapped into one thoughtful package.
Empower your employees or clients to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic water bottles with a thoughtful gift—Klean Kanteen’s reusable water bottle. Hydration is a timeless necessity.
Imagine the impact of engraving your company’s logo on a vibrant and eco-conscious water bottle. This stainless steel marvel is not only practical but also destined to become a trusted companion on all their journeys. With its double-wall vacuum insulation, the Climate Lock technology keeps beverages piping hot for up to 20 hours and refreshingly icy for an impressive 50 hours! Crafted from food-grade stainless steel and featuring a leak-proof cap, it guarantees a spill-free experience.
Klean Kanteen proudly holds certifications as a B Corporation and a member of 1% for the Planet. By choosing these responsibly made water bottles, you’re promoting your brand and supporting the planet. It’s a win-win and a testament to EarthHero’s commitment to sustainable and delightful corporate gifting.
Ever since the pandemic, many people are refocusing their energy and choosing to find ways to bring nature back into their homes and offices. With this in mind, giving a thoughtful green plant is a considerate gift that can be packed with so much meaning.
Lively Roots does an impeccable job delivering vibrant green life to any space.
At Lively Root, they’re on a mission to inspire green living by connecting people with plants. Their vision is simple: to foster green spaces by bringing the beauty of nature into your life.
Their plants thrive at their San Diego nursery, basking in the California sun while receiving top-notch care. Handpicked by their dedicated team, these plants embark on a journey from their farm to your space, whether it’s your tabletop, book nook, or home office.
Lively Root prioritizes both the well-being of the plants and the environment. That’s why they exclusively use eco-friendly materials, including sustainable packaging for a secure journey to your door. With flexible service options, they bring the freshness and vibrancy of nature to your indoor or outdoor spaces together.
With their corporate plant gifts, you can personalize them with your company logo and choose the kind of plant you would like to send.
I think we can all agree that while hard at work, it is easy to get distracted and forget to eat. A considerate box of snacks could be just the ticket to connect with your employees or customers.
Vegancuts makes different boxes that are thoughtfully curated with green sustainability in mind.
When it comes to corporate snack boxes, Vegancuts’ personalized Discovery Snack Box caters to all.
Vegancuts’ dedicated Snack Box curators source the tastiest plant-based snacks and drinks and ensure each treat enhances the quality of the box. Whether you’re gifting in-office or work-from-home employees, the Vegancuts Corporate Snack Box is the most inclusive, personalized, and simply melt-in-your-mouth tasty Snack Box.
Delightfully surprise your team with Vegancuts’ Corporate Snack Box today.
Tea is the ideal beverage for cultivating a comfy space. This is such a lovely gift for just about anyone.
We highly recommend checking out the Flying Birds Botanicals teas. They go the extra mile to ensure the ingredients in their Herbal Teas taste great and do good for people and the planet. All their teas come in biodegradable corn-based tea bags, giving you 15 delightful servings of herbal tea devoid of waste or those pesky microplastics! So, share this gift with your team or clients and know you have found a mindful relaxing gift.
Non-alcoholic drinks are an exceptional choice for a sustainable corporate gift. They’re incredibly inclusive, ensuring that your gift is suitable for everyone, regardless of their preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether your recipients abstain from alcohol, prioritize health-conscious choices, or simply prefer non-alcoholic options, these beverages cater to all.
What makes them even more appealing is their versatility. You have a wide array of options to choose from, ranging from gourmet sparkling waters and artisanal sodas to herbal teas, specialty coffees, and alcohol-free cocktails. This variety allows you to tailor your gift to suit different tastes and occasions.
In our health-conscious era, non-alcoholic drinks are perfectly aligned with the wellness trend. They often contain natural ingredients, are lower in calories, and come with none of the side effects associated with alcoholic beverages. This choice signifies your commitment to promoting well-being.
Additionally, offering non-alcoholic gifts promotes responsible drinking and social responsibility. It sends a clear message that you care about the well-being of your recipients and are mindful of their choices.
What’s great is that these gifts are suitable year-round, whether for celebrations, office settings, home enjoyment, or even outdoor activities.
Many non-alcoholic beverage brands are also committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, reinforcing your company’s dedication to the environment and aligning with the values of eco-conscious recipients.
In our fast-paced world of balancing work, family life, and wellness, it is difficult to find the time to read a great book. For many people, audiobooks are the solution. Not only are audiobooks convenient from a time perspective, but they also inherently reduce clutter, require minimal maintenance, and use no physical space.
There are audiobook companies that allow businesses to buy subscriptions for their team or clients. These subscriptions can be customized by your company and specifically curated to a certain topic of interest or can be more flexible and left to the recipient.
Audiobook companies can also provide support to local bookstores, which is a beautiful way to boost local business.
Above all, these gifts send a powerful message about your company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, aligning perfectly with the values of eco-conscious recipients.
Soy candles make for a brilliant eco-friendly gift. They are crafted from soybean wax, a renewable resource that reduces our dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels. Soy candles burn cleanly, producing significantly less soot and pollutants than traditional paraffin wax candles, which contributes to improved indoor air quality.
Additionally, supporting soy candle makers often means supporting local artisans and sustainable, small-scale production. Furthermore, these candles are biodegradable, and the containers can be repurposed, adding to their eco-friendliness. Soy candles create a warm and inviting ambiance and symbolize a commitment to sustainability, making them an ideal gift for environmentally-conscious individuals.
Something sweet continues to be a wonderful gift for just about any recipient.
It’s a universally beloved indulgence that transcends age and background, offering a moment of delight and appreciation. With its versatility and branding potential, it’s a sweet way to mark celebrations and milestones while sending a warm message of gratitude.
There is a wide breadth of chocolatiers to choose from. Fortunately, several companies are prioritizing transparency and ethical sourcing of cacao beans. Raaka Chocolate notably uses unroasted beans to offer a unique flavorful chocolate bar. Unroasted cacao beans also have the benefit of enhanced antioxidants and are associated with several health benefits including cardiovascular health and anti-inflammatory effects. All of these attributes make Raaka chocolate the ideal sustainable corporate gift for employees and clients alike.
Raaka has a wide array of delicious dark chocolate that comes in multiple flavors. They can also customize gifts with the inclusion of a thoughtful note or your company’s logo.
Say hello to the Joco Cup! It’s not your average cup; it’s made from top-notch, non-porous borosilicate glass. A stylish eco-friendly choice for sipping your daily brew without contributing to the disposable cup pile-up. Plus, you can pop it in the microwave or dishwasher without worrying about chemicals. As sustainable corporate gifts go, the Jojo Cup adds a lot a versatility. This unique little eco-friendly gift can be enjoyed by both tea and coffee enthusiasts.
Claiming Tax Deductions for Corporate Gifts
In the United States, many business gifts can be eligible for tax deductions, typically limited to a maximum of $25 per recipient. Please be sure to educate yourself on the particulars of this tax exemption. Specific rules may apply to your particular business type. We recommend consulting the relevant IRS publication for comprehensive details.
Simplified Corporate Giving
The art of gift-giving brings joy to both the giver and the recipient. Fortunately, there’s a wealth of corporate gifting services available today, designed to streamline the process for you. Selecting the perfect gift for your dedicated team or valued clients is a deeply personal journey. It’s a world filled with distinctive eco-friendly possibilities, ranging from enchanting gift boxes and customized essentials to lively potted plants and tantalizing sets of gourmet delights, teas, and chocolates. May your gift-giving journey be an absolute delight!