(BPT) - 'Tis the season for giving. And with this eco-friendly gift guide, giving greener is easier. Whether you're shopping for the gardener, techie, alternative energy aficionado or the do-it-yourselfer, this is your go-to resource for gifts that please people and the planet.
The gardener
For the person who likes to play in the dirt, a raised garden bed is sure to guarantee a happy harvest. Or help ensure their soil is nutrient-rich by setting them up with a compost bin. Pair with organic seeds or plants, and your gardener will be grateful.
Eco-friendly factor: Local food travels less distance from farm to plate, using fewer resources and less carbon emissions. It doesn't get more local than your backyard. About 11% of all greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by eliminating food waste or composting more. And using organic seeds helps soil and plant health.
The techie
With the ability to automate lights and temperature control, your techie is going to geek out over lower energy costs with a simple touch. Whether you choose a fully integrated smart home or smart lighting system, or a single or starter component, this gift keeps on giving by saving you energy and money.
Eco-friendly factor: Minimize energy use when nobody's home or when you need less light/heat - saving earth's valuable resources.
The alternative-energy aficionado
Solar energy is a powerful force, and one your alternative-energy enthusiast is eager to harness. Give the power of the sun with a Complete Solar Power Kit that creates 1,150 watts of clean, renewable energy. A smaller, more mobile option is a solar charging USB station that powers up gadgets the greener way.
Eco-friendly factor: Solar energy is a truly renewable source that is readily available, and free. Using solar energy to supplement electric use reduces strain on the grid and the environment.
The do-it-yourselfer
Whether they like clearing the yard or building in the basement, battery powered is the more sustainable power usage option. Chervon's EGO, named The Home Depot's 2019 Environmental Partner of the Year, replaces heavy carbon-emitting combustible engines with its patented 56V ARC Lithium battery across the EGO line of cordless outdoor power equipment. The Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 9-Tool Combo Kit offers tool versatility and a rechargeable battery. The combo kit includes a pair of saws, drivers and a string trimmer.
Eco-friendly factor: Lower carbon emissions by replacing gas with battery power.
Have someone on your list who doesn't fit into any of these categories? Give them a more sustainable gift card - The Home Depot eGift Card, sent via e-mail. They can add it to their Apple Passbook or save it to their Google Wallet and use it to shop in stores or online at homedepot.com.
'It feels great to give, especially during the holiday season. We're proud to offer sustainable gift options that not only demonstrate a thoughtfulness for the recipient, but for the planet as well,' says Ron Jarvis, vice president of environmental innovation at The Home Depot.
Happy holidays, and happy (sustainable) shopping!