With Father’s Day coming up fast, we’ll all be thinking of gifts for our dads – ideally, not just another pair of socks! We know that gift-giving can seem at odds with the zero waste ethos, but our dads are special and we want to show them how much they’re valued.
The answer? Zero waste father's day gifts that are kind to the planet as well as to our dear ole dads. And who knows, perhaps your father will be so impressed by his prezzie that you convert him to a low-waste lifestyle, too. Read on for some of our favourite eco-friendly gift ideas.
#1: Consumables
Whether it’s wine, coffee beans or some high-quality chocolates (in plastic-free packaging), consumable gifts are not only an eco-friendly option, they’re also often the most appreciated. Getting someone something special they can enjoy, particularly something they wouldn’t treat themselves to, is thoughtful. Plus, consumable gifts will be gone by the end of father's day and won’t get left in a corner gathering dust.
#2: Hanging Herb Shelf
Most dads enjoy flexing their green fingers, so this hanging herb planter is one of our favourite eco-friendly gifts. You can get a customisable shelf size and it’s available in different finishes, so you can design it to perfectly fit your dad’s needs. He’ll love having fresh herbs on hand and never having to buy a plastic packet of herbs again! Now that's zero waste!
Above: Avoid wasteful plastic bags of herbs by growing your own
#3: Face and Beard Oil
If your dad likes to look well-groomed but never seems to have good products of his own, you’ll change his life with this premium vegan face and beard oil. Zero waste packaging - the glass bottle is both stylish and fully recyclable - and what’s inside it is made only from plant-based ingredients. You’ll be proud to be seen with your dad once he’s this dapper!
Above: "Liquid Magic" Face and Beard Oil from Talisman Skincare
#4: Stojo Collapsible Coffee Cup
King among zero waste father's day gift ideas, this reusable and collapsible coffee cup is ideal for dads who love coffee (all of them, right?) and are always on the go. It’s practical, thoughtful and one of the simplest ways to begin your dad’s conversion to waste-free living.
Above: A collapsible coffee cup fits right in your pocket
#5: Water-to-Go! Travel Filter Bottle
This present is a great way to get your dad to drink more water and encourage him to avoid single-use plastic. The water filter component is particularly useful if your father is an adventurous type who likes to travel abroad (although that might have to wait!) or go camping – this simple design is easy to carry with you at all times.
Above: This travel filter bottle kills 99.9% of contaminants - no single-use plastic, no worries!
#6: Something Crafty
Don’t worry, we’re not thinking macaroni picture frames here – those days are long gone! But even now you’re an adult, we’re sure your dad will still appreciate a father's day gift you’ve made yourself, whether it’s your own pottery mugs or you’re a dab hand with a knitting needle. That’s what we call zero waste gifts with love.
#7: Parker Fountain Pen
If your dad still has an old-school diary or writes a lot for work, this refillable fountain pen is the ideal father's day present. He probably won’t even realise that it’s an eco-friendly gift because it’s such a classic, but these pens save him using non-biodegradable plastic Biros (plus will make his handwriting look amazing!).
Above: The classic parker fountain pen looks super stylish, without the hefty price-tag
#8: Safety Razor and Shaving Oil
Disposable plastic razors are the bane of our existence – and the planet’s! Not only are they not easy to recycle, so end up taking up landfill space; they also cost tonnes. That’s why your dad will appreciate this lightweight long-handled safety razor with its close shave and elegant look.
Above: Save hundreds of disposable razors from landfill with a safety razor
Above: Ditch the plastic-packaged gels and foams, and try natural shaving skincare from Kairn
#9: Time With You!
Our most zero waste gift idea of them all, something that requires no materials and no waste: quality time with you. Take him out for a drink, cook him dinner or treat him to a lunch out. This is such a lovely way for both of you to reconnect on Father’s Day and won’t require any wrapping, either!
Extra tip: Furoshiki Wrap.
Speaking of wrapping presents, if you want to maintain the element of surprise when you hand over your gift, don’t use wasteful wrapping paper. Furoshiki cloth is an elegant and unusual way to wrap your Father’s Day present – and your dad can always reuse it for the next gift he gives you!
