You can tell it’s the holiday season when you start seeing twinkling lights of every color, but this year, may all your gifts be green.
Green giving is thoughtful on many levels. The person receiving the gift can enjoy their present without sending the electric bill through the roof.
Choosing a green gift can be easy too. Look for energy ratings on large appliances and TVs or select unplugged gifts—think renewable, reusable and recyclable.
Even something as small as packaging and wrapping can make a difference. Think about wrapping your gift in something that can be reused like a fabric bag or scarf to tie things up. Alternatively, reuse paper or ribbons you already have on hand.
Here are some green gadgets that would make great gifts.
For decorators: LED Christmas lights ($15–$35). These energy-efficient lights use up to 90% less energy than your old incandescent strands and have a significantly longer life-span. They save on holiday electric bills and stay cool to the touch. For extra pizazz, get smart light strips, which allow the recipient to choreograph their own light show right from their smartphone.
For gardeners: solar garden lights ($15–$50). Available in endless colors, styles and sizes, solar garden lights can be a lovely addition to your favorite green thumb’s garden. These sun-powered accessories allow gardeners to illuminate their hard work without adding to their electric bill.
For cooks: countertop air fryer ($40 and up). Especially great for the empty nester or those cooking for only one or two, air fryers use significantly less energy than a standard oven. Great for getting veggies and proteins perfectly crisp, this kitchen addition will let them whip up tons of tasty and healthy dishes.
For movie buffs or sports fans: Energy Star-rated TV (prices vary). TVs are getting bigger and better. But before you give something that uses too much energy, look for the Energy Star label. It will offer the smallest impact possible on electric bills.
For techies: smart power strip ($20–$40). This technology is great for plugging in electronic gadgets. Not your average power strip, smart strips offer designated outlets that make it easy to power down certain devices to save energy while not affecting others plugged into the same strip.
For homebodies: electric blanket ($30–$80). If you have a friend or loved one who wants to spend the whole winter curled up on their couch, an electric blanket might just be the key to keeping warm while keeping heating costs down. Give the gift of comfort without turning up the thermostat.
For the constantly connected: solar cellphone charger ($50–$100). Help unplug energy-sucking chargers from the wall; solar chargers can be placed in a window to charge a cellphone anywhere the sun shines—or even clipped onto a backpack on a hike or walk.
While the wealth of modern devices available has undoubtedly brought benefits, the best way to give a green gift can be to look for one that doesn’t require a plug at all. A good book, puzzle or board game can be a great gift that creates an opportunity for connection without a screen.
