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The amount of rain that falls affects our environment in various ways, from river flow to the availability of freshwater, but it can also shape the diversity and distribution of ecosystems within different regions of the globe.

A new long-term study of Seychelles warblers (Acrocephalus sechellensis) on Cousin Island has revealed that rainfall during the breeding season can affect “divorce” rates between the birds, highlighting the complex effects climate change can have on animal reproduction and conservation.

The study, conducted on a closed Seychelles warbler population, uncovered major findings on how rainfall and other environmental factors can negatively affect the stability of pair bonds in birds, a press release from Macquarie University said.

“This instability can occur because of the effects rainfall patterns have on the ecological environment of the warblers, where rainfall influences food availability, and nest/habitat conditions, all of which can affect the health of the birds before and during the breeding season and affect their ability to produce offspring,” A. A. Bentlage, a researcher in the School of Biological Sciences at Australia’s Macquarie University, told EcoWatch in an email.

Seychelles warbler pairs tend to stay together in favorable weather. Charli Davies

For species like the Seychelles warbler, who are socially monogamous, “divorce” refers to the breaking up of a pair bond when both individuals are still living. The mating strategy of pair bonding, observed in various species, has often been associated with lower reproductive success, or the number of offspring they produced as a pair.

Social monogamy implies that birds form a pair bond and spend many years — even lifetimes — with the same partner. Birds in these partnerships typically live and raise their young together, but they are not always sexually monogamous.

The relationship between divorce and environmental factors — especially fluctuations in climate — is still poorly understood.

“We analyzed 16 years of data from a longitudinal dataset to examine the influence of rainfall on the prevalence of divorce and the possible underlying mechanisms. First, we performed climate window analyses to identify the temporal windows of rainfall that best predict reproductive success and divorce. Then, we tested the effects of these temporal windows of rainfall on reproductive success and divorce and the influence of reproductive success on divorce while controlling for covariates using generalized linear mixed models,” Bentlage told EcoWatch.

The study, “Rainfall is associated with divorce in the socially monogamous Seychelles warbler,” was published in the Journal of Animal Ecology.

“We… found a complex, non-linear relationship between rainfall patterns and divorce rates, with divorce being more likely during years of both low and high rainfall,” said Frigg Speelman, a member of the science and engineering faculty at Macquarie University, in the press release. “This relationship was notably influenced by an extreme climatic event — the 1997 El Niño-induced rainfall spike.”

The researchers found a correlation between the extreme rainfall associated with the 1997 El Niño event and divorce rates of the Seychelles warbler. However, when they excluded this exceptional event from their analysis, it became clearer that there was indeed a negative relationship between rainfall amounts and the birds’ divorce rates.

The study did not find any direct link between the reproductive success of the birds and divorce likelihood, however, which suggested that there may be other factors influencing partnership stability.

Bentlage said rainfall extremes have a significant effect on the food sources and habitats of the Seychelles warbler.

“Extreme rainfall can greatly affect the ecological environment of our study population. For example, low rainfall significantly diminishes food availability by disrupting the development of insects that often lay their eggs in water, and heavy rainfall can destroy habitats/nests and make maintaining optimal body temperatures difficult for birds. Therefore, both rainfall extremes can impact the birds’ health and make raising offspring difficult,” Bentlage told EcoWatch.

The researchers found that the highest divorce rates occurred in years with extremely high or low rainfall occurring during breeding season, possibly affecting how the birds viewed their partners.

“Whereas divorce in many species is often correlated with poor reproductive success, our study found no evidence for this in the Seychelles warbler, suggesting that other, more complex factors may be involved. For example, the aforementioned rainfall effects may cause an increase in stress for the birds, increasing the instability of their partnerships as they associate the stressful period – that was caused by extreme weather – with their partner. Thus, extreme rainfall could misinform these birds about the quality of their partner, causing them to reconsider their choice of partner and separate,” Bentlage said.

The study builds on mounting evidence demonstrating how environmental factors — especially those associated with climate change — can have a direct effect on the reproductive strategies and social dynamics of wildlife.

The Seychelles warbler is a native species of the Seychelles islands. The rare birds are already facing a number of conservation challenges, which make the study particularly relevant. The findings of the research suggest the species could experience further stress to population stability and reproductive success due to environmental changes.

“As climate change intensifies, it is critical to understand how fluctuations in environmental conditions, such as rainfall, affect the stability of socially monogamous species,” Speelman said in the press release. “This research not only enhances our understanding of animal behavior in the face of climate variability but also provides valuable insights that could inform conservation efforts for species vulnerable to the effects of climate change.”

What other environmental changes and stressors are Seychelles warblers facing due to climate change?

“The Seychelles warblers are a great conservation success story as they were once on the brink of extinction, with just 26 individuals left in the world. After Cousin Island and the surrounding sea became a nature reserve in the 1960s/70s the population bounced back to stable numbers. Thus, they are doing quite well at the moment. Nevertheless, as a result of climate change, extreme rainfall events are predicted to become more prevalent and alongside them, other stressors such as extreme winds may also become more of an issue. Wind can influence territory quality on Cousin because wind-driven onshore salt spray negatively affects vegetation. Thus, habitat destruction that influences territory quality/food abundance may become more prevalent in a changing world,” Bentlage told EcoWatch.

Bentlage said the research team does not know how divorce driven by rainfall extremes will impact Seychelles warblers in the long-term, but once that is understood it could help improve future conservation efforts.

“We do not yet understand whether rainfall-driven divorce in the Seychelles warbler is adaptive, maladaptive, or has no effect on short/long-term reproductive fitness. As we discuss in our paper, it is essential to investigate the fitness consequences of divorce in the context of these extreme environmental effects to understand to what extent plasticity in breeding behavior may enable socially monogamous species to adapt to a rapidly changing world,” Bentlage explained. “Once that is understood, combined with our current knowledge of the negative effects of extreme rainfall on reproductive success, our findings can greatly inform population modeling and monitoring, such as using environmental indicators as early warning signals for potential declines in population stability. Also, for some species, such knowledge may even inform habitat management and conservation approaches that have specific climate change adaptations in mind. For example, efforts could be made to protect habitats or create refuges that provide optimal conditions during poor climatic periods.”

The post ‘Divorce’ Rates of Seychelles Warblers Linked to Rainfall Fluctuations During Breeding Season appeared first on EcoWatch.

https://www.ecowatch.com/seychelles-warblers-divorce-rainfall-fluctuations.html

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8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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Last Updated on November 6, 2025

Did you know most rugs are made from polyester, aka plastic? Arguably, a good chunk of our furniture and home decor is nowadays.

And lets not forget – rugs can get a lot of foot traffic. If it’s made from polyester, chances are those plastic fibers are going to shed and get onto us. Or worse, in us.

8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; for more information please see my disclosure policy.

Microplastics have been found in human feces, blood, and even placentas. And according to a study from Stanford University, those who had microplastics in their plaque had a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and death than those who didn’t.

On top of this, 5 billion pounds of rugs go to waste each year – that’s 2% of total US landfill. And if they’re made from plastic? They won’t biodegrade.

It’s more important than ever to reduce our exposure to microfibers where we can. Which is why I’ve rounded up the best non toxic rugs on the market.

what is the least toxic rug?

The least toxic rug will have sustainable materials and use no harsh chemicals (like PFAs) in their production.

Here’s what to look for when purchasing a non-toxic rug:

  • Sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, jute, sisal or wool 
  • Low-waste packaging + delivery
  • Natural, non-synthetic dyes
  • Third-party certifications like OEKO-TEK, Fair Trade, GOTs 
  • Easy to spot-clean or machine wash
  • Available in various styles, patterns + colors to suit your needs

do all rugs have PFAS?

According to Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), only four samples of 201 carpets and rugs were found to contain more than 100 parts per million in their fibers, indicating PFAS were intentionally added to the products.

However, while PFAs may not be a huge concern for rugs, microplastic pollution is, specifically if your carpet is synthetic. Your best bet is to check the material your rug is made from and choose natural fibers whenever possible.

what is the best non-toxic rug for nursery?

The best non-toxic rug for a nursery would be made from natural materials like wool and organic cotton (which are soft on baby’s skin).

I recommend also checking for natural latex for the rug backing and underlay pads. Brands on this list that offer kid-friendly sizes and patterns include Lorena CanalsNestig, Quince, and Loomy (more on each below). 

what brand of rugs are non-toxic?

The brands of rugs that are non-toxic are listed below. I’ve gone ahead and highlighted some of my favorite features of each brand, but it isn’t an exhaustive list. Be sure to check out their websites for more information.

Hook and Loom: 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

1. hook and loom

  • Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
  • Made from GOTs certified organic cotton, recycled cotton + wool
  • No dyes or harmful chemicals
  • No latex

lorena canals non toxic rugs

2. lorena canals

  • Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
  • Handmade by artisans using recycled materials like organic cotton + wool
  • Nontoxic dyes
  • Make your own option
  • Machine washable
  • Rugcycled line made from recycled materials in their own factory 

sabai non toxic rugs

3. sabai

  • Field rug
  • Woven using wool + jute
  • Available in 3 varying sizes
  • Rug pad add-on available for reduced movement
  • Certified B Corporation

quince 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

4. quince

  • Various sizes + patterns, best known for vintage-inspired looks
  • Made from natural materials like wool, jute, + cotton
  • Handcrafted by artisans in India
  • Transparent pricing practices
  • Compostable poly bags + recycled plastic mailers

west elm non toxic rugs

5. west elm

  • Rugs for every area of the home, in varying sizes
  • Made from wool, jute, hemp, cotton, TENCEL + recycled materials
  • Handspun by skilled artisans in India

nestig non toxic rugs

6. nestig

  • Area + washable rugs made with fun shapes/designs for babies + kids
  • Washable rugs made with organic cotton + nontoxic dyes
  • Area rugs made with cotton + each colored element crafted from recycled cotton
  • Handmade in Brazil

cold picnic non toxic rugs

7. cold picnic

  • Various rug shapes + sizes, abstract patterns + bold colors
  • Made with wool, bamboo silk, cotton, hemp, + deadstock materials
  • Designed in a Brooklyn studio, handmade by artisans in India
  • Committed to reducing packaging waste where possible

loomy non toxic rugs

8. loomy

  • Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
  • Made from banana silk, hemp, jute, recycled fiber, viscose, or wool
  • Any colored yarn dyed using low-impact techniques
  • Handcrafted by indigenous artisans

So what do you think of these non toxic, sustainable rugs? Let me know in the comments!

The post 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home appeared first on Going Zero Waste.

8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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Our Picks for the Top Black Friday and Cyber Week Sales From Sustainable Brands

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It’s not easy shopping consciously during the holiday season — especially during Cyber Week. It’s a time of year notorious for overconsumption, impulse buys, and purchases that are bound for the landfill just months (or even days) later.

But I also don’t believe that sustainable living just looks ONE way. These sustainable and ethical Black Friday discounts can be a way to access better products for more affordable prices. And a great way to support small businesses over big box stores during what is often the most important time for businesses.

Here are some things to keep in mind to engage with Cyber Week and Black Friday more sustainably!

1. A “deal” isn’t a “deal” if we’re buying things we won’t actually use and enjoy long-term (it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of a deal and buy something that we totally wouldn’t have bought otherwise — been there, done that!)

2. Our whole platform is about challenging overconsumption, but if we want to intentionally purchase some ethical clothing or eco-friendly gifts, these sale days can be a great opportunity to support conscious brands more affordably.

3. It’s worth asking some additional questions and taking some extra time to make these purchasing decisions because the dopamine hit of a good deal can skew our decision-making abilities!

4. If the whole Cyber Week affair stresses you out or you’re feeling pressured to buy more than you originally intended, know that you can step out at any time. Turn off your notifications and get outside and/or spend time with loved ones! You do not need to buy ALL (or any) of your holiday gifts during this week.

But if you’re ready to make a mindful investment in something for yourself, or have a long list of gifts and you want some support in shopping small and consciously, check out this list of the best sustainable and ethical Black Friday and Cyber Week deals going on. Plus, we featured some companies opting out of deals and doing donations instead.

Transparency note: we only feature brands that meet high standards for sustainability we love, that we think you’ll love too. Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase via these links we may earn a commission, which helps us continue this site. Thanks for your support!

Here Are Our Top Picks for This Season:

1. Passion Lilie

Female Model wearing dark petrol blue printed maxi skirt with a slit at the knee by Passion Lilie, organic cotton skirt
Male model wearing olive green hand woven organic cotton full sleeved shirt by Passion Lilie

With elevated womenswear and menswear that pop in prints and weaves, this woman-owned brand champions artisanal techniques like hand block printing and hand weaving to create the most flattering styles that’ll withstand trends.

The brand carefully creates its pieces to make sure they are biodegradable at the end of their lifecycle by using natural fibers like recycled cotton and organic cotton that are treated with organic dyes. Since artisanal craft plays such an important role in their design ethos, Passion Lilie ensures all producer groups they employ are either Fair Trade certified or employ its core practices.

Sale Details: 30% off site-wide with free shipping over $125. Use coupon code BFCM2025. Valid November 26 – December 3

2. Mightly

A pre-teen boy and a girl sitting on a bed reading a book dressed in printed organic cotton pajamas by Mightly kidswear
A pre-teen boy and a girl playfully posing in a organic cotton dark blue and green jumpers and matching bottoms by Mightly kidswear

Founded by four mothers who wanted to create comfortable, long-lasting clothing for active children – minus the toxic chemicals – Mightly is setting the standard for consciously crafted kidswear that takes fun designs just as seriously. Don’t just take our word for it, scroll their site to find Mightly’s delightfully colorful collection of clothing for babies, toddlers, and kids in prints that’ll add a spring in your little one’s step.

Every piece is made using Global Organic Textile Standard certified organic cotton and is sewn at Fair Trade certified factories, ensuring every step of production is responsible.

Sale Details: Tiered discount available sitewide November 25 – December 1.

  • 15% off orders of $75+
  • 20% off orders of $150+
  • 30% off orders of $250+

3. MasayaCo

A water-resistant slatted top teak wood stool placed on top of a puddle of water by MasayaCo
A close up image of three teak wood side tables stacked over each other by MasayaCo

If you’re seeking artisanal furniture that’ll breathe some character into any space, then look no further. MasayaCo creates a range of handcrafted pieces from reforested teak wood that supports artisans and has an enduring quality. You’ll find versatile pieces to suit nearly every room of your home — and even something for outdoor settings that’ll withstand the elements owing to their naturally water-resistant teak.

MasayaCo has built a restorative model where they grow and manage their own forests, harvesting mature trees for furniture while 30-40% of the reforested land is preserved as a native forest.

Sale Details: 20% off all items and up to 40% off on select items November 19 – December 4. All discounts auto-applied at checkout.

4. Medley

For those who prefer plush, elevated furniture with an inviting appeal, Medley will make you feel right at home with their pieces. Ready to insert a mid-century modern touch into any home, they use time-honored building techniques to offer lasting furniture that ages beautifully.

You can lounge easy on Medley’s pieces knowing that right from the filling to the upholstery, and wood, the materials they use are tested by certifying bodies like OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, CertiPUR-US®, and GREENGUARD Gold, to name a few, which indicate the materials have been tested to be free of harmful substances and meet the most stringent standards for low chemical emissions.

Sale Details: TBA | November 28 – December 2

5. Sabai

Nothing adds life to a living room quite like a cozy and inviting sofa. And at Sabai, you’re bound to find a cushy one that’ll serve itself as a centerpiece for the heart of your home. Sabai is on a mission to make sustainable furniture that’s affordable, repairable, and circular.

The company has a range of sofas and loveseats made from recycled and upcycled materials in non-toxic finishes that are completely modular, so they can accommodate and adapt to your changing needs. All of their pieces are created on a made-to-order basis with the option to order up to six swatches free of charge for the discerning decorators.  

Sale Details: TBA

The following Black Friday and Cyber Week sales from sustainable brands are sorted by category!

Sustainable Homewares & Furniture Sales

Avocado

Non-toxic brand with low-waste manufacturing offering your bedroom a sustainable upheaval with organic mattresses and bedding

Discount: TBA

Urban Natural

Sustainable home decor and furniture retailer with top brands like Copeland, Cisco Home and East Fork

Discount: TBA

Boll & Branch

Fair trade and organic-certified bedding and bath products

Discount: TBA

The Citizenry

Artisan-made home goods and furniture

Discount: TBA

Coyuchi

Sustainable bedding, bath, home goods, and pajamas made with GOTS-certified organic cotton or regeneratively-sourced fibers

Discount: TBA

My Green Mattress

Non-toxic organic mattresses, bed frames, and accessories

Discount: TBA

Saatva

Eco-friendly memory foam mattresses and organic bedding

Discount: TBA

Savvy Rest

Organic mattress and non-toxic furniture retailer using sustainable natural materials

Discount: TBA

SOL Organics

GOTS-certified organic cotton bedding

Discount: TBA

Ethical & Sustainable Fashion Holiday Sales

Christy Dawn

Slow fashion brand with dreamy dresses and other clothing made responsibly from deadstock fabric, organic cotton, or regenerative cotton grown by Oshadi in India

Discount: TBA

Kotn

Responsible clothing brand offering everyday essentials made from natural fibers with a traceable origin

Discount: TBA

Mate The Label

Loungewear and basics made with non-toxic and organic materials

Discount: TBA

Monica Vinader

Jewelry made from 100% recycled gold vermeil and 100% recycled sterling silver

Discount: TBA

Organic Basics

Eco fashion brand with intimates, basics, activewear and lounge apparel made with earth-minded fabrics

Discount: TBA

PACT

Organic cotton basics and loungewear plus home textiles made in Fair Trade Certified factories

Discount: TBA

Tradlands

Nap dresses, balloon pants, and all things cozy, crafted in sumptuous natural fibers and deadstock materials

Discount: TBA

The RealReal

Luxury fashion consignment site for finding pre-loved designer apparel and accessories

Discount: TBA

The Knotty Ones

Timeless and stylish hand-knitted knitwear made with biodegradable yarns crafted by female artisans living in rural Lithuania.

Discount: TBA

Thesus

Ethical footwear brand with vegan boots and sneakers made from sustainable, traceable materials, including large percentage of recycled materials

Discount: TBA

Vestiaire Collective

Luxury fashion resale site

Discount: TBA

tentree

Eco-minded clothing and accessories brand that plants 10 trees with every order

Discount: TBA

ThredUp

Online secondhand marketplace

Discount: TBA

Subset

Organic cotton underwear and bralettes

Discount: TBA

Brook There

Comfy organic cotton undergarments: underwear, bralettes, and nightgowns cut and sewn in the U.S.

Discount: TBA

EILEEN FISHER

Timeless, high quality slow fashion brand with circularity programs

Discount: TBA

HYER GOODS

Wallets, bags, and other accessories made from upcycled materials

Discount: TBA

Whimsy + Row

Eco-friendly Los Angeles-based clothing label with effortless pieces

Discount: TBA

Toad&Co

Eco-friendly men’s and women’s outerwear and casual clothing

Discount: TBA

Reformation

Sustainably-minded apparel brand actively working towards 100% circularity and building a Climate Positive business

Discount: TBA

Clean and Low Waste Beauty

100% Pure

Fruit-pigmented makeup and plant-based non-toxic skincare

Discount: TBA

Activist Skincare

Woman-owned brand creating high-performing vegan skincare that comes in plastic-free and refillable packaging

Discount: TBA

ILIA

Clean makeup brand — personally I love their Limitless Lash and Super Serum Skin Tint

Discount: TBA

Detox Market

Clean beauty and wellness retailer

Discounts: TBA

Henry Rose

Fine fragrances with 100% ingredient transparency; EWG Verified and Cradle to Cradle Certified

Discount: TBA

Kjaer Weis

Natural makeup brand with low-waste refillable packaging

Discount: TBA

Sustainable Cookware, Cleaning & Daily Essentials

360 Cookware

Non-toxic stainless steel cookware crafted in Wisconsin in the U.S.

Discount: TBA

Blueland

Eco-friendly cleaning supplies, including dish soap and laundry detergent

Discount: TBA

Our Place

Non-toxic non-stick pans made in ethical factories; WOC-owned

Discount: TBA

Enviroscent

Non-toxic, cruelty-free refillable home scents

Discount: TBA

XTREMA

Non-toxic ceramic cookware

Discount: TBA

Dropps

Biodegradable laundry and dishwashing pods

Discount: TBA

We’re continuing to update this post so be sure to bookmark it for later!

In the meantime, check out our gift guide: 30 Sustainable and Ethical Gift Ideas for Everyone On Your List

The post Our Picks for the Top Black Friday and Cyber Week Sales From Sustainable Brands appeared first on .

Our Picks for the Top Black Friday and Cyber Week Sales From Sustainable Brands

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21 Eco-Friendly & Ethical Gift Ideas For Everyone on Your List

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From gorgeous home decor and indulgent organic beauty to artisanal quality accessories and thoughtfully-crafted gift sets, you’re sure to have a successful (and stress-free) gift-giving experience for everyone on your list through our curation of conscious yet covetable ethical gifts.

We know that finding that perfect present for every individual in your life can be an overwhelming task, especially if you’re a conscious-minded shopper. To put you out of your holiday-gifting-induced anxiety, we’ve put together a comprehensive, sure-fire assortment of ethical gift ideas for you.

So, go ahead and secure your favorite spot on the couch to get ready to check off your gift giving list, because this ethical gift guide will not disappoint. With something for every special someone on your list — even the hard-to-shop-for folks in your life — we’re making it possible to get much of your seasonal shopping accomplished in one place.

Rest assured, you’ll find something delightful for yourself too — maybe a set of gram-worthy pastel cookware? Think of it as an incentive to get you through the holiday hustle.

Now, don’t let us keep you…get ready to have your gift-wrapped ducks in a row with our sustainable gift ideas ahead. The perfect gifts for socially conscious and environmentally aware loved ones in your life!

Please note that this guide includes CL&S partners and affiliate links. As always, brands meet strict criteria for sustainability and are brands we love — and that we think you’ll love too!

1. Organic Cotton Clothing by Passion Lilie

Why we love it: Fair Trade, Organic Cotton, Pays Living Wages, Woman-Owned | Price: $68+

Passion Lilie offers a range of elevated clothing made from sumptuous organic cotton fabric that’ll keep your loved ones looking stylish and feel all snuggled up come winter. From handwoven shirts for men to figure-flattering hand-printed dresses for women, the brand’s dedication to highlighting artisanal craft reverberates throughout its collection. We recommend bookmarking their crimson hand-printed snowflake dress for the women who’ll appreciate a holiday-themed gift. You could also complement the dress with a dainty little stocking stuffer like one of the tea towels or napkins from their collection of kitchen linens in bright and charming prints.

Model wearing snowflake printed organic cotton red dress by Passion Lilie

2. Handcrafted Teak Furniture by MasayaCo

Why we love it: Reforested Teak Wood, FSC® Certified, Vertically-Integrated Supply Chain, Reforestation Program | Price: $55+

Offering artisanal teak furniture that’ll add a touch of understated elegance to any home, Masaya & Co. has curated a range of side tables and stools under $350 for the discerning decor enthusiasts. Handcrafted from durable and naturally water-resistant teak wood, their slatted top Japanese-inspired Zapatera stool has garnered raving reviews about just how well it holds up as an in-shower stool. The brand operates on a self-sustaining model by growing its own FSC® Certified teak trees on reforested land in Nicaragua.

The Zapatera Stool by Masaya & Co placed with a rolled towel on top of it in an outdoor bath setting

3. Organic Cotton Kidswear by Mightly

Why we love it: GOTS Certified, Fair Trade Certified™, Woman-Owned | Price: $18+

For the little ones you know and adore, Mightly has a range of organic cotton kidswear that’ll make for a great gift this festive season. Think dresses that are big on twirl factor, cozy pajamas with prints that pop, and unisex hoodies with snap front pockets to store all their tiny treasures. Every piece is made with GOTS certified organic cotton, which explicitly prohibits the use of toxic chemicals in the finished product, making it ideal for kids with sensitive skin. And if that wasn’t reassuring enough, the pieces are also thoughtfully designed to include details like tag-free labels, easy-to-wear fits, and playful designs that make it fun yet functional.

A group of little girls posing wearing colorful printed organic cotton clothing by Mightly, Mightly kidswear

4. Non-Toxic Loungewear by MATE the Label

Why we love it: Plant-Based Materials, B Corp, Woman-Owned, GOTS Certified Fabrics | Price: $48+

With laidback loungewear that strikes the perfect balance between fashionable and effortless, MATE the Label boasts of cozy threads you’d want in your wardrobe come winter. Stylish options are just a bonus, the brand is committed to keeping its clothes free of toxic chemicals and harmful dyes while adhering to self-imposed protocols to ensure the factories it works with are safe, fair, and compliant with California labor laws. They’ve also made choosing a gift a lot easier with their curated holiday guide that’s categorized by budget and persona.

Model wearing dark green Organic Cotton Alpaca Blend Half-zip Sweater and striped joggers by MATE the Label

5. Refillable Hand Soaps by Blueland

Why we love it: WOC-owned, Plastic-free, Refillable, Natural Ingredients | Price: $12+

A conscious gift that is both practical and plastic-free, Blueland has floral-scented hand soap tablet refills can be paired with their glass dispenser bottle that’ll stay in use on the bathroom countertop for a long time. The process of using these is as easy as filling up the bottle with warm water, dropping in a soap tablet, and pumping it to find hydrating, foamy goodness at your fingertips.

Blueland’s Garden Blooms Variety Pack soap tablets feature plant-based and planet-friendly ingredients in scents inspired by the fragrances found in your own backyard.

A hand reaching for plastic-free soap tablet refill packs from Blueland's Garden Blooms range placed against a botanical backdrop

6. Premium Loose Leaf Tea Collection by Rishi Tea & Botanicals

Why we love it: USDA Certified Organic, Ethically Sourced, Agrochemical-free | Price: $67

For the ones who cherish daily indulgences like a warm cup of tea, this gift set will send them on a sensory journey through global tea traditions. This gift set features 12 curated blends that range from delicate green teas to robust black teas, refreshing herbals, and fragrant oolongs. Don’t just take our word for it, one reviewer claims the set was “very luxurious” and found the tea selection to be “amazing and delicious”. The brand supports growers through ethical and direct sourcing that pays 5-10x the commodity prices to incentivize their efforts on sustainable harvests of organic quality.

A hand reaching for a pack of ethically sourced loose leaf teas from the premium loose-leaf gift set by Rishi Tea & Botanicals

7. Bonfire Reusable Candle by Mimi & August

Why we love it: Reusable, Soy Wax, Non-toxic Fragrance | Price: $38 CAD

Hunting for the perfect holiday gift to present a great hostess? Snatch up this fragrant little candle to light up their space with an inviting aroma.

Evoking the smell of a nostalgic campfire with notes of cedar, vanilla, and smoke, this hand-poured soy wax candle comes in reusable cups of different sizes that can be filled with some hot cocoa and marshmallows once used up.

Bonfire Reusable Candle by Mimi & August

8. Jewel Tone Birth Month Dish on Uncommon Goods

Why we love it: Certified B Corporation, Philanthropic, Reforestation Program, Pays Fair Wages | Price: $25

Glazed in birthstone colors, this jewelry dish is the prettiest little ethical gift that’ll adorn any dressing table. They feature crackled glass centers resembling crystalline geode slices that give them a distinctive appearance. Simply select the birth month to get a unique jewelry dish that’s just as special as the person you intend to give it to.

Crafted by a trained female potter, you can find more such unique handmade gifts on Uncommon Goods where independent designers are celebrated for their work.

Jewel Tone Jewelry Dishes on Uncommon Goods, ethical gift idea

9. Sake Body Lotion by cocokind

Why we love it: WOC-owned, Certified Organic Ingredients, Philanthropic, Life Cycle Transparency | Price: $23

Crafted with Japanese fermented rice wine that’s rich in smoothing enzymes and microbiome-friendly prebiotic sugars, the sake body lotion by cocokind has a reviewer describing it as “the only body moisturizer” where they’ve “used the entire bottle.”

Available in an upcycled plastic bottle that’s fully recyclable, the sake extract they use is created by fermenting rice kernels and is completely alcohol-free. It also contains a blend of sunflower seed oil and shea butter that’ll leave skin feeling supple and soft.

Hand pumping Sake Body Lotion by cocokind

10. Organic Towels by COYUCHI

Why we love it: Plant-Based Materials, Fair Trade Certified™ Factories, GOTS Certified Fabrics | Price: $18+

Know someone who loves a good towel lounge after a shower? We reckon these indulgent organic towels might just motivate them to stretch those sessions even further. Offering an array of matching organic cotton towel sets in weaves and textures that look like they’ll wrap you up in luxury, these towels also come in lovely earthy tones and size options, in case you aren’t keen on getting the entire bundle. They’ve even got a set of plush cotton robes that’ll offer them enough reason to not leave the house and disappear into it like a second skin.

Stack of light blue organic cotton towels in varying sizes by COYUCHI

11. Handcrafted Wool Slippers by Kyrgies

Why we love it: OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Certified, Biodegradable, Plastic-Free, Low-Waste Practices, Woman-Led Factories | Price: $89+

Let your loved ones kick up their feet in comfort come winter with a little help from Kyrgies wool slippers. Kyrgies’ cozy slip-on offerings are handcrafted in Kyrgyzstan, where local sheep are known for producing wool with long fibers that are ideal for felting in a mulesing-free process. The wool is felted by a women-led factory using centuries-old techniques, ensuring leftover off-cuts are reused as extra padding in their slippers or repurposed as natural insulation for buildings.

Handcrafted red Wool Slip ons by Kyrgies

12. Weighted Blanket by Bearaby

Why we love it: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Certified, Global Recycled Standard Certified, GOTS Certified, Reforestation Program | Price: $199+

For the busy bees who could use some serious R&R, this weighted blanket will help them hit the hay faster. Known for aiding with naturally deeper sleep cycles, Bearaby’s weighted blankets are crafted using organic cotton that’s free of fillers and owes its weight to the chunky knit fabric alone.

Not just for cozy winters, these machine-washable cotton blankets are knitted for maximum breathability making them perfect for all seasons.

Model curled up in a beige cotton knitted weighted blanket by bearaby

13. Life Designer Journal by Intelligent Change

Why we love it: Philanthropic, Natural Materials, Recycled, Compostable, FSC® Certified Paper | Price: $39

For the ones who have a special spot for aesthetic stationery, this journal is a gift they won’t judge solely by its pretty cover.

Filled with mindful prompts centered around five essential pillars that guide you through a self-reflective journey to help manifest your best self, this journal will be a portable therapist and best friend bound between the pages that might just have you picking up a copy for yourself as well.

Journal filled with self-help prompts by Intelligent Change

14. Tree of Life Cork Yoga Mat by Scoria

Why we love it: Woman-owned, Natural Materials, Philanthropic | Price: $105

Offering the ultimate incentive for perfecting the warrior two pose, this alignment cork yoga mat features a methodical tree of life print that isn’t just aesthetically appealing but also helps properly align postures with a line across the middle. Talk about combining style and function!

Crafted with a sustainably harvested cork surface that’s backed by natural rubber, this anti-slip mat comes with a handy cotton mat carry strap.

Tree of life print on cork yoga mat by scoria

15. Shallow Dinner Set by East Fork

Why we love it: Certified B Corporation, Philanthropic, Pay Living Wages | Price: $156

For the friend who is always posting perfectly plated stories of what they’ve cooked, this set will be a highly welcome addition to their dinnerware collection.

Including two bowls and three plates in different sizes, this handcrafted ceramic shallow dinner set comes in many hues, but we highly recommend the black set for its understated elegance and the way it’ll make a rainbow salad or smoothie bowl pop.

East Fork’s pottery glazes are completely food-safe and free of lead so they won’t have to worry about heavy metals leaching into meals.

Black Dinnerware set by East Fork, ethical gift idea

16. Safe & Snuggly Baby Box by The Filtery

Why we love it: Woman-Owned, Non-Toxic, Plastic-Free | Price: $125

For the mindful new parent who’d appreciate a practical gift for their little one, this box is a thoughtful curation of non-toxic baby essentials like an organic diaper balm, plastic-free feeding bottle, organic cotton blanket with pacifier, silicone bath toys, and fragrance-free body wash, along with a wonderful plantable holiday card that’ll sprout up like their child.

The best part? It’ll arrive in a ready-to-gift box that won’t require any additional gift-wrapping with the option to add a personalized note at checkout that’ll be hand-written for the recipient.

Use code CONSCIOUSSTYLE at checkout for 10% off!

Non-toxic curation of gifts for babies, gift set by The Filtery

17. Sock Gift Boxes that Give Back by Conscious Step

Why we love it: GOTS Certified, Fair Trade Certified™, Philanthropic | Price: $35+

Colorful socks with fun designs that don’t just look good but also give back, these ethical gift sets will easily be one of the most meaningful presents you’ll give your loved ones. These soft organic cotton sock sets are created in collaboration with creative artists to help connect customers with world-changing nonprofits through causes they care about.

From socks that support mental health to ones that protect the ocean, dogs, cats, and beyond, you’ll be sure to find a sock set with a purpose.

printed sock gift set by conscious step that saves cats

18. Friendship Bracelets by Monica Vinader

Why we love it: Recycled Metals, Traceable Supply Chain, Recycling Program, Philanthropic | Price: $130+

The adult equivalent of a friendship bracelet, these fine baubles will be adorned and cherished by your BFF for years to come.

Monica Vinader’s collection of friendship bracelets ranges from fine 18k gold vermeil versions to nylon cord styles to maintain that old-school charm.

What’s more? You can add a complimentary engraving with either a motif or personalized text to make it just as meaningful as the bracelets you handmade in high school.

enamel and gold recycled metal vermeil friendship bracelet by monica vinader

19. Piccolo Zipper Card Wallet by HYER GOODS

Why we love it: Deadstock and Recycled Materials, Woman-Owned, Reforestation Program | Price: $125

Chic and petite, this luxe zip wallet will quickly become the new go-to essential they won’t leave the house without. With five exterior card slots and a lined cash compartment with an extra card slot that comes with a zip-around closure, this minimal wallet is surprisingly functional for daily use.

We love the fact that it’s made using recycled deadstock materials and is compact enough to fit into tiny clutch bags. The brand sources its leather from local leftovers, making sure every recipient receives something unique.

Olive Green and Brown Deadstock Leather Wallet by HYER GOODS

20. Throw Pillows by Studio Variously

Why we love it: WOC-owned, Natural Materials, Natural Dyes, Ethically Made | Price: $74+

On the lookout for ethical gift ideas that’ll add an inviting hygge vibe to any space? Then look no further than these textural throw pillows by Studio Variously.

Available in earthy hues that are finished with intricate patterns and embroidery, these pillows are handcrafted using natural materials that fit in well in just about any interior setting.

embroidered throw pillows by studio variously, ethical gift idea

21. The Little Artist Gift Box by The Filtery

Why we love it: Woman-Owned, Non-Toxic, Plastic-Free | Price: $150

A gift box that every kid — and parent! — will adore receiving, this curation of plastic-free art supplies is a great way for children to develop fine motor skills and serves as a fruitful distraction from screen-time.

Packed with a watercolor painting kit, plant-based play-dough, macramé kit, garden activity kit, and a plantable holiday card for the budding little green thumb, you can confidently click “add to cart” knowing the box will arrive gift-wrapped and ready to stuff under the Christmas tree.

Use code CONSCIOUSSTYLE at checkout for 10% off!

Non-toxic curation of gifts for kids and toddlers, gift set by The Filtery

And one last bonus sustainable gift idea for the person on your list that doesn’t want more stuff:

Audiobook Gift Membership on Libro.fm

Why we love it: Supports local and independent bookstores | Price: $31+

Consider this the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life who enjoys a great read but has lately been having a tough time getting through their ever-increasing to-be-read pile.

We love the fact that Libro.fm offers a range of credit bundles to choose from so that your gift recipient can have their pick of the lot while supporting local bookstores through your purchase.

phone and head phones with audiobooks from libro.fm app on screen

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About The Author:

Jharna Pariani is a fashion writer and creative strategist whose work is rooted in honesty and deep observation of the world around her. When she isn’t busy penning down her thoughts, she moonlights as a video editor creating fashion and food reels on Instagram for several brands and influencers

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