Eco-Friendly Swag Bags: Creative Ideas for Sustainable Event Giveaways

When planning an event of any kind – conference, wedding, birthday party, tradeshow or gala, some sort of giveaway or swag are a staple that many guests love and are accustom to receiving. But with growing environmental awareness, attendees are leaning towards more sustainable and eco-friendly options and event organizers are trying to fulfill that request. To craft eco-friendly swag bags or giveaways means being more thoughtful and mindful of what you decide to include. This not only reflects your client’s commitment to the planet but also creates a memorable experience for your guests. Here are some creative and sustainable ideas to make your next event swag bags a hit while staying green.

1. Curate items that are on brand/theme from local businesses

Think about the theme of your event as well as your attendees – what types of items make the most sense? For example, for a Wellness Conference we opted for a reusable tote bag with a cork massage ball. In addition to this, we offered door prizes such as a gym membership for a year as well as an Apple Watch. Or for a Climate Summit we communicated to our attendees that no swag will be provided. For speakers, we selected Swedish dish cloths and sweet smelling hand soap from a local eco-store. If you’re looking to source some ethical and sustainable swag, check out Butterfly Ethical Gifting!

2. Plantable Seed Paper Products

Seed paper embedded with local flowers or herbs is a fantastic option for eco-conscious events. Consider including plantable bookmarks, thank-you notes, or even business cards. When planted, these items grow into flowers or herbs instead of ending up in a landfill, making them a unique and sustainable alternative to traditional paper. You can find options from Botanical PaperWorks located here in Canada (Sign Up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter for eco-resources straight to your inbox)

3. Digital Gifts

Reduce physical waste by giving digital gift cards or discount codes. Opt for eco-friendly or local businesses in the event host city. This not only reduces shipping/travel emissions but empowers attendees to try sustainable products and include these eco-friendly practices beyond the event.

Digital gifts also provide flexibility and personalization, allowing recipients to select items they’ll genuinely enjoy. Check out our friends at Unwrapit who create a holistic and branded digital gifting experience.

Final Thoughts

Sustainable swag supports your organization’s values and commitment to the environment. By carefully selecting eco-friendly items and opting for high-quality, practical gifts, you can create an impactful and memorable experience. As we move towards a more eco-conscious future, a thoughtful way to show that every choice we make, big or small, has the potential to make a positive impact on the planet.