Looking for the best eco-friendly gifts for teens that we *guarantee* they won’t secretly return as soon as January 2nd rolls around?
We’ve crafted the ultimate list of sustainable gifts for teenagers who refuse to keep anything that’s not ethically made and inherently cool, ahead.
The Best Eco-Friendly Gifts For Teens, in a pinch…
- Best Eco-Friendly Gift For Teenage Boys: House Of Marley Turntable
- Best Eco-Friendly Gift For Teenage Girls: Bubble Skincare
- Best Eco-Friendly Teen-Approved Gift: Hero Cosmetics Pimple Patches
- Best Eco-Friendly Stocking Stuffer Gift: Meaningful Mantras Candle
- Best Eco-Friendly Luxury Gift: Aurate Jewelry
Let’s not deny it any longer. Brainstorming on the best gifts for eco-friendly teens — whether it’s your little brother, sister, cousin, niece, or best friend’s kid — is notoriously tricky.
We’ve all desperately tried to pick “the ultimate” present for the under-18 person in our lives in the hopes that they won’t roll their eyes at it as soon as they tear up the beautifully wrapped box, but with no luck.
It’s not a secret that environmentally conscious teens understand that holiday gift-giving is rife with waste. After all, Gen Z cares about sustainability more than anyone else – and is starting to make others feel the same.
However, still, we throw away roughly 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and the New Year than any other time of the year –this accounts for 25 million extra tons of garbage. It’s no wonder why eight out of ten teens now prioritize the environment when shopping.
So ultimately, when picking unique eco-friendly gifts for teens, it should all come down to ethics, quality, style, and, of course, the cool factor. In other words, we have to ask a few important questions.
- Will this gift serve your teen over the years?
- Who made the product and are they paid fairly and treated respectfully?
- What is this gift made of? Are the materials eco-friendly?
We love a good challenge! That’s why we rounded up a list of 25 eco-friendly gifts for young adults that check all the aforementioned boxes.
What gifts do eco-friendly teens actually want in 2024?
In 2024, teens are seeking thoughtful and sustainable gifts that align with their values and support their desire to make a positive impact on the environment.
For example, reusable water bottles, made from materials like stainless steel or glass, help reduce plastic waste.
Chic accessories like belts, wallets, or bags made from upcycled or organic materials, allow them to express their style sustainably. Consciously-made self-care products are also very popular amongst teens.
The Best Eco-Friendly Gifts For Teens In 2024
1. My Green Mattress Topper
Add an organic latex topper to your teen’s mattress and feel confident knowing that your teen will get an additional lay of comfort and have a happy and healthy sleep.
The My Green Mattress topper is made with 2-inches of GOLS-certified and OEKO-TEX-certified Dunlop organic latex and is covered with a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover.
It includes a 5-year warranty and a 365-night sleep trial!
Price For Queen
From $299+
Materials
2 inches of GOLS-certified organic latex, covered with GOTS-certified organic cotton cover
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
2. House Of Marley Turntable
What are the best eco-friendly gifts for young adults who love vintage elements? Wireless turntables!
Meticulously designed using post-consumer and upcycled materials, these turntables are equipped with speakers to give their vinyl the gorgeous sound it deserves.
They offer over 20 hours of playtime for all-day listening. Plus, look how darn stylish they look.
Price
From $199+
Ethics
Post-consumer & upcycled materials, Members Of One Tree Planted & The Forest Stewardship Council
location/shipping
United States
3. Scoria Yoga Mat
If your teen enjoys yoga, meditation, or stretching, consider gifting them a non-toxic cork yoga mat from Scoria.
Crafted from natural tree rubber and sustainably harvested cork, these mats are colored with water-based inks and secured with eco-friendly glue.
Making them a healthier and more sustainable choice compared to synthetic TPE/PVC alternatives.
Price
From $87+
materials
Sustainably-harvested GOTS-Certified cork & rubber, safe inks & glue
location/shipping
Canada, ships worldwide
4. Uncommon Goods Journal
Oh, journaling–the best way to keep a treasure trove of memories, practice self-love and so much more!
According to dozens of studies, the people who journaled saw the biggest reduction in symptoms like depression, anxiety, and hostility.
So rest assured that it’s the perfect eco gift for teens who want to express themselves.
Price
$19
materials
Paper, ink
location/shipping
United States, ships internationally
5. Bubble Skincare
Our job as parents is to promote healthy and happy skin, so why not gift your teen Bubble Skincare?
Bubble Skincare offers a wide range of products, from cleansers and serums to moisturizers, masks, and more. Their Inside Out-inspired collection is a personal favorite!
Every product is free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, mineral oil, oxybenzone, parabens, phthalates, and more.
Plus, Hello Bubble partners with Terracycle, making it easy to recycle. Just collect at least 6 empty containers (or fill the bag to the brim) and ship them off!
Price
From $13+
ingredients
Varies – See the product website for ingredient details
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
6. Bearaby Blanket
Wrap your teen in cozy comfort this holiday season with a cotton-weighted blanket from Bearaby!
Crafted from 100% organic cotton, this buttery soft, and breathable blanket is certified by OEKO-TEX® 100 and Fairtrade International.
Weighted blankets have been medically proven to promote a night of deeper, more restful sleep.
The weight on your body stimulates the production of serotonin (the happy hormone), reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases melatonin, which helps you fall (and stay) asleep. – How cool is that?!
Price
$199
materials
100% organic cotton
location/shipping
United States
7. Hero Cosmetics Pimple Patches
Are you on the hunt for the perfect eco-friendly gift for your teen who is dealing with pimples? Look no further – Hero Cosmetics‘ Mighty Patch™ has you covered.
This set includes 39 invisible pimple patches made from hydrocolloid, a medical-grade gel that gently absorbs and traps impurities.
Simply prep your skin with a cleanser or toner, place the patch on the pimple, and let it work its magic for 6 hours.
Once the patch turns opaque, you’ll know it’s done its job. Just peel it off and toss it away.
Price
$17.99 (39 Patches)
ingredients
Hydrocolloid
location/shipping
United States
8. Our Place Splendor Blender™
Looking for the best eco-friendly gift for teens who love delicious smoothies in the morning before school? Our Place Splendor Blender™ is an ideal gift.
Crafted with a durable ABS plastic base and a stainless steel blade, this blender is free from harmful chemicals like PTFEs, PFOAs, and other PFAS.
The blender offers 2 modes a high-speed blend and a pulse. The vessels, lids, and blade base are all dishwasher safe.
It also comes with a 1-year warranty and includes delicious recipes to get you started!
Price
$125
materials
Blender base: plastic (ABS), blender blade: stainless steel, personal vessel: Tritan, personal drinking lid: plastic (polypropylene)
location/shipping
United States, ships to Australia
9. Saffron Marigold Tote Bag
Looking for the perfect eco-friendly gift for your teen? Saffron Marigold has you covered.
These totes are handcrafted using traditional block printing techniques, reinforced with durable cotton buckram for added structure, and fully lined with beautifully printed fabric.
Designed with practicality in mind, they include two slip pockets inside and an outside pocket, along with a sturdy brass zipper.
Ideal for carrying everything from a lunch box to a laptop or clothes/PJs for a sleepover.
Price
$40
materials
Cotton
location/shipping
United States
10. Pela Phone Cases
What is the eco-friendly gift idea for teens with a certain obsession for infinite scrolling? An extremely stylish phone case!
Crafted by Pela, a brand with a heart as green as the plants they’re inspired by, these cases boast a composition derived from flax shive and plant-based biopolymers.
The base of the case is compostable, returning to the earth without a trace when its time is done.
What’s more, if your screen cracks while wearing the case and their liquid screen protector, Pela steps up and covers the repairs.
Price
From $50+
materials
Flax shive & plant-based biopolymer
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
11. Aurate Jewelry
We found the ultimate luxury eco-friendly gifts for young adults who cherish stylish and timeless ethical jewels!
Aurate NY’s earrings, rings, and necklaces are crafted exclusively from precious metals, ensuring timeless beauty and lasting quality.
With SI clarity, the gemstones radiate brilliance while reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
Lastly, the brand strives to maintain a carbon-neutral footprint.
Price
From $60+
materials
Recycled & ethically sourced diamonds & gemstones
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
12. River Organics Makeup
Use discount code SKL15 to save 15%!
Specializing in 100% vegan cosmetics, each River Organics product is handcrafted from meticulously sourced, organic, and EWG-verified ingredients.
From blushes, bronzers, concealers, and highlighters to lip glosses and eye shadows, the brand offers a full spectrum of clean beauty essentials to cater to your makeup desires.
The key ingredients? Lab-made conflict-free mica, organic cacao butter, and nourishing macadamia nut oil.
Price
From $11.99+
ingredients
Varies – See the product website for ingredient details
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
13. Pela Sunglasses
Your quest to find amazing eco-friendly gifts for girls teens and boys is officially over.
Pela’s sunnies offer full UVA/UVB protection and are manufactured with 33% less CO2 emissions, 34% less water usage, and 82% less waste compared to conventional sunglasses and packaging.
Plus, as they protect your eyes, they’re also protecting our oceans, with 1% of profits donated to Ocean Cleanup and Preservation Initiatives.
Price
From $64+
materials
Flax shive & a plant-based biopolymer
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
14. Meaningful Mantras Candle
A beautiful addition to any home, let these non-toxic candles serve as a reminder that they can do and be anything.
Made from pure, organic ingredients and infused with natural essential oils.
These candles promise a serene and aromatic experience. All you have to do is pick the right scent!
Price
From $16.99+
ingredients
Coconut oil, real essential oils, unbleached cotton wick
location/shipping
United States
15. TOMO Reusable Water Bottle
Use discount code SKL30 to save 30%!
Reusable water bottles are not only extremely sustainable but can also be oh-so-cool –if you pick the right one that fits the teen’s personality to a T.
Known as one of the most practical sustainable gifts for teenagers, this zero-waste option is made from BPA-free, FDA, and EU-approved materials.
And the colors are absolutely amazing! Hydration has never felt so reassuring.
Price
From $148+
materials
304/316 stainless steel, AAA top-tier quality crystals
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
16. LA Relaxed Fashion
Use discount code SKL20 to save 20%!
Let’s deck the halls with ethical threads, shall we? Super versatile clothing basics made from certified organic cotton are the best option!
Our favorite slow fashion brand uses organic farming practices that ensure a reduction in harmful chemicals, promoting a healthier planet and a healthier you.
Plus, all GOTS-certified staples are also certified by Fair Trade USA, a guarantee that every stitch represents fair wages and safe working conditions for the hands that brought these outfits to life.
Price
From $40+
ethics
GOTS Certified, made in Los Angeles, sustainable & ethical, made in small batches, pays employees a living wage
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
17. House Of Marley Headphones
On the hunt for sustainable gifts for teenagers who absolutely love music?
Enter: Headphones made from post-consumer and upcycled materials.
Think FSC® certified wood, REGRIND® silicone, and bamboo!
Not only do these sleek headphones provide a superior auditory experience, but also, your music-loving teen be jamming out in style.
Price
From 99.99+
ethics
Post-consumer & upcycled materials, Members Of One Tree Planted & The Forest Stewardship Council
location/shipping
United States
18. Colorful Standard Cold Weather Accessories
Help the teen in your life get cozy and sustainable in 2024 with trend-driven cold-weather accessories for slow fashion brands like Colorful Standards – scarves, beanies, and socks.
Made from 100% organic cotton and 100% recycled merino wool, they are a blend of warmth and eco-friendliness.
Packed in recycled FSC packaging, the company also uses labor practices, ensuring fair treatment and wages, while minimizing waste with their zero-waste commitment.
Price
From $40+
materials
100% organic cotton, 100% recycled merino wool
location/shipping
Denmark, ships worldwide
19. Ten Over Ten Nail Polish
Help the teen in your life maintain an enviable chip-free manicure with non-toxic nail polishes!
Made with natural and sustainable ingredients, such as plant-based oils and extracts, these formulas aim to nourish and strengthen the nails.
The best part? The vivid colors are completely free of formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates.
Price
From $12+
Ingredients
Varies – See the product website for ingredient details
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
20. Kooshoo Hair Scrunchies
Meet the world’s first 100% fair trade, plastic-free scrunchies!
These amazing biodegradable hair ties are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and natural rubber.
So, when composted properly, they will completely go back to the soil in just seven years.
Price
From $10.99+
materials
70% GOTS & Fairtrade Certified organic cotton, 30% Fair Trade natural rubber
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
21. Oakywood Tech Accessories
For the most practical eco-friendly gifts for girls teens and boys, look no further than phone accessories!
Skillfully handcrafted from FSC-certified solid oak or walnut wood, this dock beautifully cradles your iPhone while keeping it charged and within arm’s reach.
Thanks to micro-suction tape technology, docking and undocking your device with a single hand is a breeze.
To top it all off, the spacious tray, lined with plush woolen felt, adds functionality, providing a dedicated space for your keys, wallet, or other tech essentials. With a natural wood shine and classic design.
Price
From $70+
materials
FSC-certified oak/walnut wood
location/shipping
United States
22. Cariuma Shoes
Ethical shoes will forever be one of the best eco-friendly gifts for young adults!
Starting with the materials, these wear-me-everywhere shoes are crafted from sustainable resources, a blend of innovative vegan materials that prioritize kindness to animals, the environment, and your style.
Plus, Cariuma carries the B Corporation Certification, a badge of honor representing their accountability, transparency, and environmental stewardship.
Price
From $95+
ethics
Sustainable materials, fair working hours & wages, B Corporation Certified, Butterfly Marked Certified, vegan
location/shipping
Brazil, ships worldwide
23. Wuka Period Underwear
Statistics point out that 60% of pre-teens said their self-esteem plummeted or lessened around puberty, while 63% felt embarrassed when they got their first period.
So let’s help your favorite teen feel comfortable with their body during that time of the month with the WUKA first-period pack.
This period starter kit was created to ensure a stress-free start to periods and thus, it includes the WUKA ultimate organic bikini brief, a guide to growing up great, and a hand-made in Nepal washbag for easy carrying.
As the brand mentions “Our award-winning underwear will give your girl confidence in lessons, sports, or sleepovers.”
Price
From $15.99+
Materials
Organic cotton, TENCEL modal, elastane
location/shipping
United Kingdom, ships worldwide
24. Uncommon Goods Anti-Anxiety Cards
According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 1 in 3 of all adolescents ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder.
Gift serenity and mindfulness with one (or multiple) anxiety relief gifts!
Including a “workbook for anxiety” to guide the journey, “therapy dough” to knead stress away, and a “mindfulness planner” for daily mindfulness exercises, there’s something for every need.
Your teen will be equipped with practical tools and practices, aiming to alleviate anxiety and promote mental well-being with each mindful moment.
Price
$25
materials
Cardboard, cardstock
location/shipping
United States, ships internationally
25. Detox Market Self-Care Gift Sets
The Detox Market offers an array of sustainable gifts for teens for every self-care need!
Curated to perfection, these kits include highly moisturizing, soothing, and pure products, all crafted from natural, non-toxic ingredients.
A worry-free, toxin-free cleansing ritual that pampers your body and soul, how amazing is that!?
Price
From $20+
Ingredients
Varies – See the product website for ingredient details
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
This was your full guide to the best eco-friendly gifts for teens!
There you have it–our foolproof list of the best eco-friendly gifts for teens who cherish the plant and all its inhabitants while wanting to look as cool and stylish as possible.
From self-care gift sets and jewelry-making kits to wear-me-everywhere joggers, phone cases, and patches, these sustainable gifts for teens promise to delight everyone on your checklist.
Check out our other amazing sustainable holiday gift guides below:
