Gifts make the holidays extra festive. We give and receive them from people in our lives. We carefully select the most appropriate, presentable option amid a bewildering array of choices during the yuletide rush.

At times, however, limited time and crowded malls and bazaars make us go for quick solutions. We end up giving (and receiving) items that eventually end up in storage, are regifted, or even discarded.

So, have you considered sustainable alternatives as you practice mindful gift-giving this holiday season? These are practical choices that demand less from the environment because they are made from recycled, upcycled, or biodegradable materials. Sustainable gifts reduce waste and pollution. Their positive impact benefits the environment and, more importantly, our quality of life. We invite you to consider these gift ideas that spread not only holiday cheer but also love for our planet and its future generations.

• Gift certificates. Rethink the idea that gift certificates are quick solutions that are not given a lot of thought or effort. They are actually great gift choices for people who seem to have everything or are difficult to shop for. A P200 coffee shop GC is far more meaningful than a figurine with no purpose. Parents can use gift certificates to buy milk or diapers for their babies. Homeowners will appreciate the extra budget for groceries. Pet lovers can spoil their fur babies with more treats through gift certificates. A little amount will go a long way!

• Seeds and plant cuttings. Share a cutting from one of your houseplants with a friend or encourage them to start growing vegetables at home. Look into house plants that are low-maintenance and serve purposes such as purifying the air (peace lily) or increasing humidity (areca palm). Present them in biodegradable pots for an eco-friendly touch. Tomato, chili (siling labuyo), and spring onion can be grown at home. These not only add savings but also give homeowners a new outdoor activity to enjoy.

• Sustainable fashion. Go for brands with sustainable collections if you really want to give a new pair of shoes, clothing, or accessories. These options ensure that your gifts are made from eco-friendly materials and produced through ethical practices. An extra good deed for the planet: support recycling initiatives by donating clothes you no longer wear at participating malls. You might even get discount coupons for doing so!

• Gifts with a cause. Does your recipient support advocacies such as children’s health or animal welfare? Consider donating to organizations that support these causes on their behalf. You could also plant a tree in their name or organize a tree planting activity with your group of friends.

• Really reusable bags. While many people already have large cloth bags for grocery shopping, they often still ask for packaging when carrying a bottle of lotion or shampoo, a book, or a bottled drink back to the office after a lunch out. These are usually discarded immediately, — much like printed receipts from bank ATMs that are thrown away within seconds. Find foldable and smaller reusable bags that are easy to carry and even fit inside pant pockets.

• Truly thought of you. Does your officemate borrow your pair of scissors? Is your marker often found in your sister’s room? Does your friend’s car always run out of tissue paper? What you know about people can give you simple yet practical gift ideas that show thoughtfulness and meet everyday needs.