Climate Change and Christmas: 18 Gifts To Show You Care

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6 Nov

All this Polar bear wants for Christmas is more Arctic ice

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Climate change isn’t sexy. It’s not thrilling or entertaining. In fact it’s quite possible this article’s been skipped over because I included ‘climate’ in the title. And let’s be honest — we’ve all got so much going on in our lives that to add ‘saving the planet’ to the list just makes you want to hide under your duvet even more. And it’s no wonder — when we read facts like ‘since humans arrived on land in New Zealand, over half of our native birds have gone extinct and researchers have found it would take 50 million years to recover them.’ Add in some global news of polar ice caps melting and island communities vulnerable to sea level rise and if you feel like screaming in frustration and helplessness — I’m with you. It’s an overwhelming future we’re facing and just what that will look like. Which is not exactly happy, happy, joy, joy when it comes to the season of holidays and giving. But there are things we can do.

One of the simplest actions is to buy less — all year round. Especially things we don’t really need or that are made in unethical working environments, using fossil fuels to mass produce items with planned obsolescence (they won’t last long on purpose) or with plastic that’ll never biodegrade. Essentially, the less we consume and the less we discard the better. We know this right?

So how do we juggle buying less, with still giving presents to people we love? Especially when the thoughtfulness of gift giving is considered a love-language and for many people has an important part to play in celebration, appreciation, creativity, care and ritual. After all, none of us want to feel like the Grinch at Christmas, but we don’t want to make the state of the planet any worse?!

The good news is that there’s plenty of ways to gift that show we care — and this guide will inspire you to both buy less, and buy something great.

The first part is a series of questions to encourages alternative gift ideas and that involve time and creativity. In the second part, I’ve curated a series of practical and ethically made products and experiences by (my favourite) socially conscious brands, artists and designers. These gift ideas encourage meaningful moments of ritual, rest and connection with the great outdoors. Finally in part three, check out some cool eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas.

Part 1

Guide to choosing a gift

Creativity and time are two of your most valuable resources — and can be used to connect with your person, and show you care in a multitude of ways. Typically people tend to fall into one of two camps: either they appreciate practical things, or they enjoy something more creative. But sometimes it’s hard to think of a gift that’s not something bought brand new.

Ask yourself this series of questions to inspire an awesome gift idea, that might not cost the earth.

Tip: Try and give yourself as much time as possible for planning a gift — It’s much easier to make or prepare something if you’re not under time-pressure.

Part 2

18 great gifts, thoughtfully made

Now if you got to the last question “Where can I buy the best quality [insert item] that I can afford, that will last them as long as possible, that’s made ethically and locally?” but you’re still wondering what that thing is — I can help you with that.

This is the part where you’ll find gift ideas that an ocean or outdoor lover in your life is sure to appreciate.

I believe that well-crafted products designed to last for generations, that can be repaired, mended and loved have a place in our daily life. I also believe that we should support our local makers, crafters, designers, artists, engineers, writers and inventors — and share the good work of those with an ethically and sustainably made product.

Discover below a selection of gifts from practical items (sailing gear) to creative and shared experiences (art and design, and coffee) to health and wellbeing (outdoor life) — each of these I’m happy to rave about and have bought (or would buy) guilt-free. Many of these products are local to me in Aotearoa/New Zealand and I encourage you to look up local makers and crafters in your hometown that you could support as well.

The only espresso maker you’ll ever need

Let's just say if our yacht was sinking, my husband would grab this second only to the life raft. The Newton BRUA coffee machine makes a perfect espresso shot. It’s perfect in other ways too. It uses zero electricity, has no waste (except coffee grinds, it doesn’t take up bench space, it’s simple to use and looks awesome (did I mention it’s won design awards?). They’re hand-made in New Zealand in small batches, refined and assembled by a couple of good guys in a backyard workshop — so at their price they are an investment, but for all of the above reasons — totally worth it.

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2. Pottery like none other

Laurie Steer pottery vase — *Ivory Bud Vase With Golden Skull*

Artist and Potter Laurie Steer is one of New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists, who digs his own clay (digs into myths of the artworld) and fires his own pots — and sells things himself, with the most entertaining product descriptions you’ll ever read. “...You could chop up all manner of beautiful living things and poke them in this beelzebub bottle without feeling one iota of shame…” he said of the Ivory Bud Vase With Golden Skull (pictured above). Steer is a master craftsman and contemporary storyteller — his stoneware clay is crafted on a traditional kick wheel and is guaranteed to provoke a conversation. Sturdy enough to cope with life onboard, these pieces are fit for (but not limited to) flowers, cheese platters or throwing to fend off pirates. Tempted to see more? Click the button below

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3. A lasting impression

Hapuku fish gyotaku print by Tim Li — *Tim Li’s Hāpuku gyotaku print*

Tim Li gyotaku fish printing process — *Gyotaku print process — photos courtesy of Tim Li*

Tim Li’s work is a meticulous display of time and care — detailing New Zealand’s aquatic fauna with graphite-on-paper drawings that take upwards of 150 hours to complete. He also specialising in a traditional Japanese printmaking practice called Gyotaku (from gyo “fish" + taku "stone impression"). During this process, the fish is inked and an impression taken on rice-paper documenting the delicate detail of fish in bespoke prints. The honesty of the ink and paper rub process captures all the imperfections, the irregular scale patterns, blemishes and marks that are unique to that one fish. I love the monochromatic sensitivity in these pieces, and lasting image of the species we have in our ocean at this time. A completely unique gift — Li also offers bespoke prints to record a memorable catch.

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4. Suit up in Gemma Lee

A mature woman wears a Gemma Lee wetsuit in the ocean — *Summer Disco full wetsuit by Gemma Lee*

For those needing new swimwear, make a bright splash with these gorgeous swimsuits and wetties from Gemma Lees Summer Disco collection. Made from 100% recycled materials such as abandoned fishing nets and other post consumer products it’s a great feeling to know you’re helping to clean up the ocean in a small way. These eco- wetsuits are made out of limestone neoprene — a limestone-based alternative to petroleum neoprene that means your wetsuit won't support global oil production. Invest in a suit that will last you well, from an ocean-conscious brand.

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5. Take a deep dive

Lilac weightbelt by Kiwa dive — *Lilac silicon weightbelt by Kiwa Dive*

I’ve been girl crushing on these Kiwa free diving weight belts for a while now and I keep hearing how comfy they are. Because they’re 100% silicone, they flex nicely against the body and stay snug in place. Also, any brand that mentions the screws are hand secured with Loctite is talking my love language. There’s a great range of weight belt colours to choose from (how do you choose just one?!) and that they make a donation from some purchases to support New Zealand conservation — how good?!

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6. Keep the sun off with Skinnies

Buying someone sunscreen may not appear like the most considerate gift – but what you’re really saying is “Hey, I don’t want you to get skin cancer” — and what’s not to love about that thoughtfulness!

Especially when you’re also looking after the ocean life too with this Skinnies non-nano particle, mineral based cream. Hands-down my favourite sunscreen to keep my face protected from UVA and UVB rays on long days on the water — I think whoever gets this from you will love it too. Or see my full pick of the 11 best eco-friendly sunscreens.

SHOP AMAZON

7. Pucker up

Despite what my husband might say, you can never have enough lip balm! They’re a perfect little thank you gift or a thoughtful little something moment. Poppy & Pout and Ethique both make the most delicious scents and keep the moisture on lips pucker perfect on the saltiest of days (and I must say — there’s never any complaint about that!).

SHOP AMAZON

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8. Get your Shakti on

Shakti mat close up of mat spikes — *Shakti acupressure mat*

Know someone with muscle tension in their back and neck? Who doesn’t?! The Shakti mat has tiny spikes all over it (a nice version of a bed of nails) — and works on the principle of acupuncture. It basically stimulates blood flow into fatigued muscles and relieves tension and helps with muscle recovery. Anyone working at a laptop, living in a small space and doing hard-yakka boat maintenance will really appreciate the Shakti experience. I bought mine four years ago, and was sceptical at how well it would work but (short of a professional massage), this mat has been the best way to help my back on a daily basis. The mats are handmade ethically in Varanasi and Delhi in India, by local women being supported in fair employment and well-being.

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9. Wear a hat for life

A woman wears the Will and Bear Calloway hat — *Will & Bear Calloway wide brim fedora*

Crafted in Australia, from good Aussie wool, Will & Bear hats will last for years. They’re classic, stylish and the natural fibres are water resistant and breathable — an easy crossover from chilling out onboard to wandering on land. It’s the kind of hat that’ll only look better with age. The ethos and environmental mission behind these hats put these guys way ahead (pun intended) of the pack. Will & Bear plants ten trees for every hat sold — check them out.

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10. Retreat from busy

Unyoked cabin in Marama, Raglan on a hill by the sea — *Stay at the Marama cabin in Raglan, New Zealand courtesy of Unyoked*

One of the ultimate and essential gifts to ourself or anyone else — is time to disconnect from jobs and devices and feel alive in the big outdoors. Get the excitement of an adventure and watch the reception bars disappear as you mosey deeper off-grid. That’s exactly what Unyoked offer with a stay in cosy, comfortable cabins tucked into nature. Hear the birds, watch the sunset and wander about your own little patch of New Zealand wilderness. I can smell the fresh air from here.

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11. Explore the cold

Winter Swimming cover by Dr Susanna Søberg — *Winter Swimming — by Dr Susanna Søberg*

Sometimes we need a bit of inspiration to take on a new challenge and push ourselves out of our comfort zone. Most of us want to connect with ourselves more and with nature. This book will help. This beautifully illustrated book takes you on an exploration of the science and traditions of cold-water in Scandinavia and around the world, and how it can influence your happiness, energy and inner tranquillity. This is a book for anyone who’s wanting to step into a new world of cold water swimming.

SHOP AMAZON

12. Invest in a cosy heirloom

Mt Somers Station lambswool blanket in herrinbgone — *Mt Somers Station navy and cream herringbone lambswool blanket*

Mt Somers Station lambs wool blanket draped over a chair in a farm house

The thing about a good woollen blanket is that it will literally last for generations. We’ve got a couple onboard that have kept us cosy while sailing through long, cold night shifts. If you’re lucky, you can pick up a great woollen blanket in good condition from a second-hand store. But if you’re looking to kick start a new family heirloom with the highest quality blanket, you can’t go past these beautifully soft lambswool blankets. They’re 100% lambswool from Mt Somers Station which is spun and woven in the South Island of New Zealand — with classic woven patterns like herringbone.

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13. Subscribe to some downtime…

Sailing and freediving magazine covers — *Ocean magazines for everyone*

Anything that encourages a more rest and relaxation is a good one — and for ocean going folk, there’s so many great magazines available. A boating magazine full of the good sailing stuff arriving regularly in the post (or online) is sure to brighten someone’s day! There’s plenty of ocean inspiration and story-telling in this magazine line up. We’ve read old boating magazines from the marina live-aboard library and we always find something relevant in them – and they get passed around and re-read! Or go for a digital version for access to some leisurely reading anywhere in the world.

14. All the things — right in your pocket

If you want one piece of kit that’s going to come in handy on the sea or outdoors — it’s the humble multi-tool with a knife blade. This Leatherman Skeletool CX multi-tool is so versatile in its uses and so essential when it comes to safety and survival. This one’s super lightweight and easy to clip onto your gear or clothes so it’s close by when you need it. As with all Leatherman products – they’re the best of the best and have a 25 year guarantee.

SHOP AMAZON

15. Dry bags for wet occasions

“Big ones, small ones, some as big as your head…” a lovely bunch of drybags will always be gratefully accepted by a sailor. Afterall, surrounded by so much water, there’s a lot you want to keep dry onboard. If you’re after a drybag you can trust to stay fully waterproof for a long time, go for a tough, long-lasting bag like these ones. Highly durable, they were specially developed by PADI as a more eco-friendly option, and include recycled materials. Available in 5L, 15L and 45L dry bag sizes.

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16. Fanny packs are making a comeback

Hyperlite Versa waistbag in white — *Hyperlite Versa waistbag*

This Hyperlite Versa waistbag is exactly the kind of handy gear that changes your daily life for good. All of a sudden you’re hands free and all your essential bits are safely stored while you grab lines, jump in the dinghy or climb a hill. This Versa pack (or bum-bag as we call them in NZ) from Hyperlite Mountain Gear is water resistant and can be worn every which way.

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17. Support a force for good

4Ocean bracelet on a woman's arm — *4Ocean bracelet*

Founded by two surfers, now 4Ocean is responsible for recovering millions of pounds of plastic and trash from the world’s oceans, rivers and coastlines. You can support their mission — every purchase of a 4Ocean bracelet helps fund their work. These bracelets of recycled glass beads are a cool little way of showing someone your appreciation – and it’ll save another pound of trash from our water.

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18. Wild foraging

Wild berries in a wooden pottle on a rock — *Tasty delights found outdoors*

Know someone who looks at a plant and wonders if it’s safe to eat? I mean those berries look really good…and is that mushroom the eating kind? And I know there’s plenty of health benefits to eating seaweed. There’s so many foraging books to inspire observation and interaction with the living world around us. Discover local edible species, new recipes and free food sources with each season of the year. Here’s a few comprehensive books to get someone started in their foraging journey — on land or in the ocean.

*The Forager's Treasury by Johanna Knox*

Part 3

Eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas

Recycled fabric for furoshiki Japanese wrapping — *Recycle fabric for furoshiki Japanese wrapping*

It’s sad but true that gift wrap adds thousands of tons of waste to landfill each holiday season. The UK alone bin the equivalent of 108 million rolls of wrapping paper each year. There’s plenty of alternatives to buying new rolls of wrapping paper though. Things you may already have can be repurposed as gift wrap and packaging. Use old maps, colourful magazine pages, reusable tins, woven baskets, fabric bags or cloth – as used in Furoshiki - a traditional Japanese wrapping. Keeping a small collection of ribbon, twine, bags and boxes to reuse in gift season is an easy way to cut down on waste.

Recycled packaging for gift wrapping — *Reuse packaging for gift wrapping*

In Summary

It feels a bit like an oxymoron to create a gift-guide that’s good for the planet. I think you understand the sentiment behind this though — that we can all do our best to buy less, and when we do buy — to make more conscious choices about what it is and who it’s from. If you’ve been inspired by any of these makers — please share them around.

And I wish you a very happiest of moments as you give this season.