Top 12 Ethical Gifts For The Holidays

With the holidays around the corner and shopping lists growing with names of cousins, neighbours and coworkers (whom you promised yourself you wouldn’t forget to gift this year), the time couldn’t be better to also keep in mind the people who created each piece you buy.

As 2016 comes to a close, we reflect on a year that continued to bring drastic inequalities in supply chains to light. With factory fires in India and Syrian refugee children working illegally to make goods for big brands, the time has never been better to embrace the alternative and support companies that keep transparency and ethics high on their priority list.

Buying fair trade and supporting artisans in developing countries is a gift that keeps on giving. Here are some fresh gift ideas that celebrate craftsmanship and equality for the hands that made them, without compromising great style. Some brands are certified B Corps and others stand by the principles of fair trade, working closely with artisan groups around the world. When it comes to gifts for good, here is your 2016 holiday guide!

For her

1. Ubuntu - Clutch

Made of canvas and leather, this pouch was handmade in Maai Mahiu, Kenya. This purchase funds health and education programs in Kenya, as well as provide a living wage for those producing.

2. GlobeIn - Handwoven Vase

Handwoven and dyed organically in Rwanda, this vase supports Seraphine, a genocide survivor with a talent for weaving beautiful pieces.

3. Artisan and Fox - Sterling Silver Earrings

This gem was handmade by Shyam, a first generation silversmith in Patan, Nepal. Since the earthquake last year, Artisan and Fox has supported artisans like Shyam, as well as craftsmen in Bangladesh, Kenya and the Philippines.

4. MATTER - Dhoti pants

Dyed and printed in Jaipur, woven in Bihar and stitched in New Delhi, MATTER is fully transparent about their supply chain. They support artisan communities in India and help conserve their native crafts.

5. Earth Heir - Batik scarf

Hand-painted by artisans in rural Malaysia, each silk scarf sold provides a livelihood for women in the region and funds the planting of two trees!

For him

6. Issara - Weekender bag

Handcrafted leather, this bag supports craftsmen in Central Java and India. Issara supports their artisans and communities by providing healthcare and investing in their saving plans.

7. Cotopaxi - Do-Good T-Shirt

This t-shirt helps fund high impact organizations that address extreme poverty globally. Cotopaxi is fully transparent about their supply chains in the Philippines and actively track their impact to the community they employ.

8. FashionABLE - Laptop case

FashionABLE is committed to supporting women cooperatives in Ethiopia and promoting ethical business practices in the region. This case is handcrafted in genuine leather and is the perfect sidekick for your laptop.

9. Enrou - Whiskey Tumbler Set

Locally sourced from Uganda, these natural cups were crafted by Lenny, one of Enrou’s artisans in East Africa. Enrou employs over 7,000 artisans worldwide providing them opportunities to sell their craft.

For the little ones

10. Krochet Kids - Fox beanie

This beanie warms the head and the heart, especially when you notice the tag signed by the woman who made it. Krochet Kids also offers fair trade men and women’s apparel.

11. Artisan and Fox - Crochet monkey

This plush toy brings financial security to vulnerable Nepalese women. Artisan and Fox provides a platform for makers in developing regions to promote their handmade products.

12. Taaluma Totes - Backpack

Cotton backpacks made with fair trade fabrics from all over the world, this colourful bag was hand printed in Indonesia by artisan Pak Anis. Each purchase provides a micro loan to the craftsmen.