Sustainability is great for the environment — but it turns out, it may be just as great for your business.
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66% of global consumers will pay more for eco-friendly goods. — Inc.
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Sales revenue can be boosted by up to 20% due to corporate responsibility practices. — Harvard Business Review
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92% of consumers say their trust in brands is greater when a company is environmentally conscious. — Forbes
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Employees at eco-friendly companies are 16% more productive than average. — UCLA Newsroom
Despite these facts, ordering swag for company events, upcoming conferences and tradeshows, marketing purposes, and all the other use cases can make it seem impossible to operate sustainably.
Well, it’s time to talk about sustainable swag.
High quality, durable, and useful in everyday life — these kinds of sustainable swag ideas make an impact when employees, clients, and customers receive a piece of company swag.
Whether you are looking to bolster your brand image, amplify your company values, or find a sustainable gift to send, these eco-friendly promotional items and products should be serious contenders.
Without further ado, check out our list of the best eco-friendly swag ideas for sustainable living in 2024!
What are you looking for?Jump to the section for a deeper dive into sustainable swag for any occasion: |
Build an Ethical Swag Box
Many corporate swag vendors work directly with managers to create the ideal custom swag box. Just specify that you are looking to focus on sustainable products that do not have to be replaced often and are sold by eco-friendly businesses.
LinkedIn member Phil Montgomery’s experience:
“I still get stopped by people who have Leatherman tools that we gave away to customers in the mid 90s, engraved with the company name – (maybe tough these days with TSA carry-on rules, so give them a pre-paid envelope to mail home) – over 20 years of value in swag is outstanding. The swag lasted longer than the company that was acquired back in 1999.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: An ethical swag box can be a great first impression as a welcome kit for a new employee or to kick off the summer with a summer swag pack. Simply put, the items you select for your eco-friendly swag box should be products your employees will want to use and not chuck in the trash at their first opportunity.
1. Wellness & Sustainability Pack
“Sustainability anywhere”
This swag box is a great way to show your gratitude for your coworkers while also fostering a positive work environment. This eco-friendly promotional gift features several high-quality items that support a more sustainable lifestyle.
From the recycled stone notebook to the reusable water bottle tumbler, these gifts will impress your employees and become a staple of their workday.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: The items in this swag pack are sustainable, recycled, and high-quality. This eco-friendly swag pack comes with everything your coworkers or employees need to conquer their day with verve!
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Wellness & Sustainability Pack
2. The Eco-Friendly Box
“Cleaner oceans, cleaner organizations”
This employee gift box is packed with environmentally-friendly products such as the Bell Echo Bottle, Bamboo Fiber Lunch Box, as well as the Hustle backpack by Solgaard, which is dedicated to the removal of trash from the ocean as part of their purpose.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: With every purchase, a tree is planted, enabling you to do good while simultaneously feeling good.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: The Eco-Friendly Box
Popular Sustainable Swag Ideas
Curating a list of popular sustainable swag ideas is no small feat. By working with team leaders, HR pros, and sourcing our community of working professionals, I’ve been able to select a few trusted options that the majority of your employees would find useful if gifted a piece of swag this year.
Community member Liz Marie’s experience:
“We have done LL Bean waterproof reversible blankets & cooler backpacks, then embroidered our logo on them. Both were big hits.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: These are trusted products that have multiple uses so that any employee, client, or customer can appreciate its thoughtful construction, quality materials, and ease of use.
3. Slowtide Recycled Blanket
“The safety blanket”
The soft and lightweight fleece Slowtide Recycled Blanket comes in different colors and beautifully embroidered details that are perfect for a cozy night in, around the fire, or on your couch.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: All of the fleece utilized in the manufacture of these blankets is sourced from post-consumer recycled materials. Every part of this blanket has been screened for toxic substances, so you can rest easy knowing it’s safe to use.
Best for: Clients
Where to get it: Slowtide Recycled Blanket
4. Igloo Daytripper Tote Cooler
“For keeping things cooler than Jeff Goldblum”
The Igloo Daytripper Tote Cooler is a dual-compartment and leak-resistant cooler. With an easy-to-clean antimicrobial liner and a dry compartment for holding up to 20 cans, this polyester bag is made to last and be enjoyed for a long time.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Instead of using disposable bags, the recipient of this environmentally friendly swag item will be able to use it for years. Plus, it features adjustable front straps, dual carry handles, heat-sealed lining, and a bottle opener for good measure!
Best for: Customers
Where to find it: Igloo Daytripper Tote Cooler
Water Bottles and Drinkware
Water bottles and drinkware are popular swag items, given they help you stay hydrated on the go.
You can do no wrong if you go down the route of deploying drinkware for promotional swag. You’ll also be highlighting your commitment to promoting healthy lifestyle habits, therefore aligning yourself with the current trend towards eco-friendly living.
Reusable water bottles and drinkware help reduce the dependence on plastic water bottles that create toxic environmental waste.
Community member Chelsea Stewart’s experience:
“We recently ordered Yeti cups with our company’s logo engraved into them. If you order directly from Yeti, they engrave them for free! Money well spent and our employees RAVED about them!”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: Reusable water bottles and drinkware reduce the need for non-biodegradable materials, like rubber and plastic. These non-biodegradable wastes remain on the earth for thousands of years while polluting the earth and the air we breathe.
5. Yeti Rambler 20oz. Tumbler
“Designed with sustainability in mind.”
This bottle comes in sleek stainless steel and has a modern shape that makes it stylish and attractive. Plus, its double-walled vacuum insulation ensures drinks stay hot or cold for hours on end.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This sustainable promotional product is great for any business that wants to show its commitment to protecting the planet. The magnet on the included MagSlide Lid adds an additional barrier of protection for keeping drinks contained and preventing heat or cold from escaping.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Yeti Rambler 20oz. Tumbler
6. Travel Porter Glass
“To always have a glass handy”
It’s easy to take wine or cocktails with you everywhere you go with the Porter Glass. The Porter Glass is ideal for enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail while on the move.
This portable glass is made from high-quality glass and coated with a matte silicone coating for further protection. This is the kind of corporate gift idea that your employees or clients can use to enjoy a drink from anywhere in the world!
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This BPA-free custom cocktail glass is perfect for sophisticated and savvy digital nomads, looking to live the high life without hurting the environment.
Best for: Giveaways
Where to get it: Travel Porter Glass
7. Aviana Stainless Bottle
“No plastic, all awesome”
You can enjoy your beverages for longer thanks to the vacuum insulation between the two sides of the Aviana Stainless Bottle which ensures that your drinks remain cooler or hotter for a longer period. It’s tiny enough to fit in most vehicle cup holders, making it even handier.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This insulated stainless steel cup is ideal for cutting out disposable cups and bottles. As a bonus, the Aviana Stainless Bottle stays cold for 12 hours, and hot for 5 hours, and can be customized with a screen printed or laser engraved logo.
Best for: Promotions
Where to get it: Aviana Stainless Bottle
Bags and Totes
Bags and totes are incredibly versatile promotional swag items. You can use them to make a fashion statement, carry everyday essentials, or reuse them over and over again as shopping bags.
In terms of branding, they can serve as a mobile advertising platform, given they get carried around a lot. Your branded bags and totes are on constant display anytime your recipients are commuting, shopping, or running errands.
Community member Shannon McDaniel’s experience:
“Our most complimented idea was a HUGE zippable canvas tote bag from Land’s End with our logo embroidered. Like, my three-year-old fit in it and it was such incredible quality I could swing her in it. Great for beach trips and picnics, etc.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: Bags and totes made from sustainable material can be reused and recycled, which means you’re producing a lot less waste. You’ll also be promoting ‘conscious consumerism’ by encouraging gift recipients to opt for more eco-friendly choices as part of daily living.
8. ECO Hemp Market Tote
“An eco lover’s delight”
The ECO Hemp Market Tote is the perfect bag for heading over to the local farmer’s market to pick up some of the best locally sourced foods money can buy. To make it even better, you can also imprint or embroider a logo on this custom sustainable gift.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Hemp makes up around 55% of the bag’s body, with cotton making up the remaining 45%. Herbicides and insecticides used in conventional cotton farming may pollute our air and water, whereas organic cotton farming techniques assist in maintaining soil fertility. Avoid using plastic bags as much as possible and instead, go for this option.
Best for: Customers
Where to get it: ECO Hemp Market Tote
9. Baltic 18oz Cotton Canvas Boat Tote
“Classic style, sustainable choice.”
The Baltic 18oz Cotton Canvas Boat Tote is a long-lasting tote bag made from heavyweight cotton canvas. It is a classic boat tote shape with an open main compartment and an easy-access front pocket.
The tote has soft 12″ drop handles for comfortable carrying and can be customized with a logo or other branding. It is perfect for everyday use, travel, or outdoor events.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: The Baltic 18oz Cotton Canvas Boat Tote is an excellent sustainable corporate swag option because it is crafted from a natural material that is both biodegradable and recyclable. This product can be used repeatedly for many years, thus reducing the demand for newly manufactured items.
Best for: Customers
Where to get it: Baltic 18oz Cotton Canvas Boat Tote Days Eco Pack
10. Supply Pouch
“The sustainable way to stay organized.”
The Supply Pouch is a versatile and functional pouch featuring a waterproof zipper and a choice of zipper colors, making it a great way to show any business’ brand. The pouch is perfect for holding pens, pencils, chargers, and other small essentials.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This pouch is made from a durable and water-resistant material, and it is a practical choice for everyday use.
Best for: Giveaways
Where to get it: Supply Pouch
11. Osprey L Day Bag
“The eco-friendly swag bag”
Say hello to your new favorite eco-friendly backpack! A big zippered scratch-free pocket on the front panel, cushioned laptop and document sleeves, a small zip pocket and key clip, a water bottle side pocket, and a padded back panel round out the features of this sustainably made backpack.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Designed for everyday use, the Large Day Bag is manufactured from sturdy recycled polyester fabric that was created from 10.5 plastic water bottles.
Best for: Clients
Where to get it: Osprey L Day Bag
12. Bamboo Backpack
“Renewable and refreshingly stylish”
With bamboo fiber fabric, this eco-friendly backpack is all-natural and ultra-sustainable. On top of being sustainable, the Bamboo Backpack is created for comfort and convenience. It features a dual-zippered opening to the main compartment and extra-wide webbed, highly adjustable shoulder straps.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: The bamboo twill and raw metal hardware can be recycled; however, this backpack will last your coworkers or employees many years.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Bamboo Backpack
13. Recycled Cotton Barrel Duffel
This bag offers plenty of room for packing clothes, toiletries, or snacks – making it the ideal bag for all types of travels. Additionally, recipients can store smaller items in the front pocket which provides extra security during their trips. And with its double grab handles, carrying the duffel has never been easier.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This ethical swag is crafted from recycled cotton and other eco-friendly materials; thus, perfect for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.
Best for: Clients
Where to get it: Recycled Cotton Barrel Duffel
Eco-Friendly Apparel
Branded apparel in the form of tees and hoodies can be a great way to foster an emotional connection with your brand for employees. They also serve as walking billboards whenever they’re out on display.
A critical factor to bear in mind when opting for apparel is to make sure they’re made of strong and durable material that’s eco-friendly and sustainable. While you may end up paying out more initially, high-quality apparel can pay for itself many times over in the form of customer or employee goodwill.
Community member Angela Sue’s experience:
“One thing that I’ve continued to order year after year are baseball hats. They’re super cheap and almost nobody gives them away but everyone always wants one. Your basic dad hat with your company logo on the front.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: By using long-lasting and high-quality fabric, you’ll be promoting the use of the swag apparel for the long term, thus reducing avoidable wastage. Opt for ethical manufacturing processes to ensure your brand stands out as an environmentally-friendly brand.
14. Econscious Unisex Tee
“A wearable wonder of and for the world”
A unique characteristic of the Econscious Unisex Tee is that it is side-seamed, with double-needle cover-stitched seams on the inside. Additionally, it has a more relaxed fit, among other features.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Designed with the environment in mind, this organic cotton unisex shirt is proudly manufactured in the United States. It’s offered in different colors.
Best for: Giveaways
Where to get it: Econscious Unisex Tee
15. Ecoconscious Trucker Hat
“For people who give a truck about the planet”
This eco-friendly trucker hat is made of recycled polyester, hemp, and cotton and has an adjustable snap-back closure with a 6-panel body. In other words, it’s sustainable, stylish, and luxuriously snug.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Everything down to the custom embroidered fonts on this hat is made from sustainable materials. This is the swag your employees, coworkers, or clients can feel proud and ethical about wearing.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Ecoconsious Trucker Hat
16. Tentree Women’s Hoodie
“A hoodie for the natural elements”
The heavenly soft mix of organic cotton and recycled polyester in this classic full-zip Tentree Women’s Hoodie makes it a must-have for any wardrobe. Each of these women’s fit hoodies can be customized with a logo or another detail as well so the recipient will feel it was made just for her.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Your contribution to the environment will be significant since ten trees will be planted in exchange for each item bought.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Tentree Women’s Hoodie
Utensils
Utensils comprising items like spoons, forks, straws, knives, and chopsticks are high in utility and practicality.
Deploying branded utensils is also a great way to stay top of mind, given they’re used frequently both indoors and outdoors. They’re also a cost-effective option for businesses over the long term, provided you invest in high-quality reusable material as opposed to disposable material.
Community member Katie Fierst’s experience:
“Reusable metal straws! We got one once and the companies logo was on the straw bag and it was amazing. I use the bag and keep the straw in it in my purse so I always have one with me instead of plastic!”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: By using sustainable or reusable utensils, you can significantly reduce the impact of plastic pollution. You will also reduce the pollution caused by the production and manufacture of plastic utensils.
Let’s not forget that by opting for sustainable, reusable, or easily recyclable materials like stainless steel, bamboo, wood, or bioplastics, you’re miles ahead of the pack by being a brand that customers can trust implicitly.
17. Reusable Straw Set
“Save the sea turtles in style”
The Reusable Straw Set is ideal for sipping cold drinks. This set contains two stainless steel straws, a straw brush, and a velvet bag — all of which are dishwasher safe.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Because they can be cleaned in the dishwasher after each use, this stainless steel straw set is cost-effective, and most importantly, reusable and long-lasting.
Best for: Giveaways
Where to get it: Reusable Straw Set
18. Porter Utensil Kit
“For a slice of the good eco-life”
The Porter Utensil Kit is a compact stainless steel silverware set for efficient eating and low-impact traveling!
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: The silicone carrying case and BPA-free materials ensure this utensil kit is as convenient as it is environmentally friendly. This sustainable swag idea is perfect for digital nomads who can take it wherever their next adventure lies.
Best for: Customers
Where to get it: Porter Utensil Kit
19. Sarada Bento Lunch Box
“Perfect for the eco-conscious eater”
This lunch box is designed with convenience in mind. It features an array of compartments, making it an ideal choice for bringing lunch anywhere and keeping food fresh and organized all day long. Whether recipients need a snack on the go, or a full meal during the workday, this secure storage solution keeps everything contained in one neat space.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This lunch box is made from recycled materials and is BPA-free. Not only is it sustainable when it comes to production, but it’s also very practical to use.
Best for: Employees
Where to get it: Sarada Bento Lunch Box
Community member Kelsey Leavitt’s experience:
“My company does a welcome backpack for all our new hires- includes a pamphlet about our parent company, branded nice lunch Tupperware, multi-use pen sized screwdriver (w/ multiple heads), water bottle, light up wristlet, and a small notebook. I personally use the Tupperware and multi-use tool ALL THE TIME. I often have plenty of my own cups, mugs, water bottles and that’s a lot of swag I see. I love when someone gives me something I actually can use.”
20. Wheat Straw Food Storage Container
“100% awesome + 1% For The Planet”
The Wheat Straw Food Storage Container comes in three colors and a band to keep the cover and utensils in place while being carried around. It’s portable, practical, and a great promotional product.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: One percent of the proceeds from the sale of the Wheat Straw Food Storage Container and other EcoSmart goods will be given to environmental organizations as part of a collaboration with 1 Percent For The Planet.
Best for: Customers
Where to get it: Wheat Straw Food Storage Container
Office Stationery & Supplies
Similar to utensils, office stationery and supplies are highly functional and practical gifts, especially for the workplace.
Think pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, notebooks, files, envelopes, and desk organizers. They are easy to customize and offer a great deal of brand visibility, given the frequency of usage.
Community member Shannon Buhman’s experience:
“We give all new staff members logoed Yeti travel mugs. If you’re doing a theme or activity, you could logo an accessory. For example, we did a cooking event and so all got logoed aprons. Nice pens, notepads, folios, business card holders, etc. One year everyone got these magnetic metal mini balls that you could make into any shape, and people had a lot of fun displaying those on their desks.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: By promoting the usage of sustainable stationery supplies, you’ll be contributing toward decreasing the demand for single-use plastic material.
Aside from providing enhanced visibility, you’ll also be raising awareness of the need to protect the environment. You’ll also be showcasing your brand as one that’s committed to environmentally friendly best practices.
21. Karst Stone Soft Bound Notebook
“The sustainable choice for your notes”
The Karst Stone Soft Bound Notebook is a stylish and practical office staple. It is also waterproof and acid-free, making it durable and long-lasting.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This notebook is made from stone paper– a sustainable and recyclable alternative to traditional paper. It is a great way to show commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Best for: Clients
Where to get it: Karst Stone Soft Bound Notebook
Pro-tip: You can create an online swag store with SwagMagic to allow recipients to choose their swag and sizes.
Create a store in just 3 steps!
1️⃣ Upload your company logo and SwagMagic will design a catalog of 100+ items.
2️⃣ Send out swag or let them pay for items they want themselves.
3️⃣ Recipients choose their swag and enter their own addresses. Boom! You’re done!
22. Thule Tech Bag Mini
“Sustainable travel, every time”
Your trips will be a lot more convenient with the Thule Tech Bag Mini from Thule. Small enough to carry with you wherever you go, the bag includes compartments and hooking systems for cables, earphones, an adapter, and other items like a passport.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Your employees or coworkers can reuse this durable travel bag during their national or international business trips. Additionally, this shuttle bag can be customized with a logo or other messaging.
Best for: Promotions
Where to get it: Thule Tech Bag Mini
23. Karst Hardcover
“Stone cold and seriously amazing”
The Karst Hardcover notepad is a must-have in your swag bag no matter where you’re going. The waterproof cover and pages will keep it spotless while offering plenty of room for your thoughts and ideas to be jotted down.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Because it is made of recycled stone, the Karst Hardcover has a low environmental impact and extreme durability. Plus, it looks and feels like something the giftee will be proud to hold onto for many years.
Best for: Clients
Where to get it: Karst Hardcover
24. Crux Recycled Gel Pen
“To ditch the laptop, and write something real”
This gel pen is super smooth and will make writing in your notebook or pad a breeze. The 100% recycled ABS barrel and click-pen design is exactly what every busy professional needs.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: It is not only made of recycled materials, but it helps to cut down on cheap bulk pens that your employees will inevitably lose. This is the kind of pen they’ll want to hold onto.
Best for: Employees
Where to find it: Crux Recycled Gel Pen
25. Recycled Journal
“For true tree-hugging earth lovers”
The Recycled Journal is made from recycled paper and features a ribbon page marker, an expandable accordion pocket, and 80 sheets of lined paper.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: As if the Recycled Journal’s total customizability wasn’t enough, this eco swag can be laser engraved with a logo or design of your choosing! A great item for a starter kit, employee care package, or a kickoff event for your startup.
Best for: Employees
Where to find it: Recycled Journal
Eco-Friendly Accessories For Marketing
Eco-friendly accessories offer a lot of variety for discerning swag recipients. Think sleek bamboo sunglasses, stylish cork wallets, or recyclable jewelry!
The sky is truly the limit in terms of how creative you can get with accessories. They also make for great conversation starters, especially if they are rare or look unique in some way.
Community member Kris Pfister’s favorite marketing swag for sustainable living:
“Mints, lip balm, journal size notebooks, umbrellas, packable backpacks, luggage tags, hand sanitizer.”
Why we like this eco-friendly swag: By using sustainable or reusable eco-friendly accessories, you’re promoting a conscious lifestyle and responsible swag management. Promotional swag made in this manner is also less likely to end up in landfills, thereby adding to the significant amount of non-biodegradable waste on the planet.
26. EOS Lip Balm
“The all-natural lip balm”
The EOS Lip Balm is petroleum-free and paraben-free, with shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil. Your employees, coworkers, clients, or customers will enjoy smoother, softer lips, and smiles that don’t crack even when they’re grinning from ear to ear!
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Made in the USA, EOS Lip Balm is the natural way to live a more eco-friendly life while keeping those luscious lips lubricated even during the wintertime.
Best for: Customers
Where to get it: EOS Lip Balm
27. Classic Curve Umbrella
“For keeping employees and the office dry”
The Classic Curve Umbrella is a 4-foot tall opening inversion umbrella that can be used in busy cities or tight spaces. Also, this unique opening mechanism allows the user to keep water contained and avoid messes, while the outer surfaces remain dry.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: This eco swag gets its name from being made of 100% recycled PET material and a natural wooden handle.
Best for: Employees
Where to find it: Classic Curve Umbrella
28. Allbirds Lace Kit
“Shoe, shoo, go away waste”
The Allbirds Lace Kit is considered by many to be the world’s most comfortable shoe. This eco-friendly lace kit comes in 4 varieties of color.
Why this is an eco-friendly promotional product: Each lace is made of 100 percent post-consumer, recycled plastic bottles.
Best for: Promotions
Where to get it: Allbirds Lace Kit
People Also Ask These Questions About Eco-Friendly Swag Ideas
Q: What makes a promotional product eco-friendly?
- What makes a promotional product eco-friendly is often either the materials it’s made from (sustainably sourced) or the use. For instance, if a product can be used multiple times or is at least recyclable instead of being thrown away, that’s one way to reduce waste.
Q: What are the benefits of sustainable swag?
- There are several benefits of sustainable swag, but some of the most obvious are the positive effects on the environment and secondly, the positive impact on company culture. It’s becoming more common for employees to care about the environment and they want to work for companies that align with their values.
Q: What are some examples of an eco-friendly promotional product?
- Some examples of eco-friendly promotional products would be anything that can be used multiple times — like a bamboo water bottle, a metal straw, a silver set of utensils, or a backpack made of natural materials.
Q: How do I choose the best sustainable promotional product?
- To choose the best sustainable promotional product, look at the quality, how the product is sourced, how it’s created, and ultimately, the amount you are willing to spend on it.
Q: How much does it cost to buy eco-friendly swag items?
- The cost to buy eco-friendly swag items largely depends on what the item is. Generally, you can get a quality eco swag item anywhere from $20 to a few hundred dollars.
