With Black Friday upon us, it is easy to feel like we have to hit the shops and spend, spend, spend. However, maybe we don’t need to buy more stuff. Our sustainability expert, Sarah Walkley, takes a look at some alternative Christmas gifts.

What do you give to the person who has everything? It’s a familiar question at Christmas. The answer is usually to go on a quest for that one magical item which you think the person does not yet own but can’t live without.

But what if we think about it another way? What if having everything means the person has all the physical possessions they need. Perhaps there is an alternative gift, which isn’t just another book, ornament, scarf, pair of socks… that is just going to sit on a shelf or in a cupboard? So what are the alternatives?

Experiences not things: While not without their own environmental impacts, tickets to theatre shows, events or concerts make good alternatives. They have the added advantage that you get to spend more time with the people you love. And time together is increasingly precious in our fast-paced world. Try and make the event as local as possible to minimise the impact. Have a look at our blog on sporting events to understand why.

Go on safari: You don’t have to go to Africa to have a proper wildlife adventure, organisations like the Wildlife Trust run lots of safaris enabling you to experience all sorts of wonderful creatures from bugs to bison.

Members’ exclusive: Buy them membership to an organisation like the National Trust or English Heritage or a local group or art gallery. Then they can enjoy even more days out over a whole year.

Never get lost again: A subscription to an online mapping service such as the Ordnance Survey is a great option for those who like to get out and about for a walk. Many come with lots of route suggestions, meaning that there are a vast number of new paths to explore.

Donate to their favourite cause: Why not donate to their favourite charity? Many of those that have signed up to run a marathon or take part in any other challenge event in 2024 have not yet started thinking about their fundraising. It will be an added bonus come January that you have helped them off that particular starting block.

Plant or adopt: Why not arrange to plant a tree or wildflower meadow in their name? Or you could adopt an animal on their behalf? Charities from the National Trust and the Wildlife Trust to WWF and Tree Sisters have lots of options. Remember to ask them not to send the associated cuddly toy if you really want to avoid more stuff.

Feed the soul: A box of chocolates, a bottle of wine or some nice coffee is always appreciated. Look for products that are local, organic and Fairtrade to ensure they have a positive impact. Social Enterprise UK curates an annual gift list featuring food producers that make a positive impact through the sales of their products.

Make time: Taking time to bake a cake, make some chocolates, knit a scarf or paint a picture will mean that your friends and family will receive something truly unique.

Sarah Walkley is a freelance writer and researcher on a mission to empower everyone to play their part in addressing climate change and nature loss.

She set up Purplefully to help organisations develop their sustainability strategy and communication.