Taking small yet mindful steps toward realizing a better future for our planet can be easy – like choosing sustainable gift ideas for book lovers in your life.
Reading books may not seem like it has much environmental impact. But when you consider print books’ production, distribution, and disposal, it all has major ramifications for our planet.
But here’s the good news – there are plenty of ways readers can be environmentally friendly!
- Instead of buying new hardbacks or paperbacks, try audiobooks, e-readers, or used books. (See my recommendations below!)
- Borrowed books help the planet, too. Try the Libby app to access thousands of public libraries!
- When you indulge in bookish products, choose sustainable or eco-friendly options! (See my fab finds below, like a stylish tote with plenty of room to carry around your used or borrowed book.)
Read on to discover how you can make your reading habits more eco-friendly and reduce your environmental footprint with the best sustainable gift ideas for book lovers!
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Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Print
Go Green with Audiobooks
Compared to traditional printed books, audiobooks spare paper products for a more eco-friendly option. Immerse yourself in a story while planting trees, cleaning up trash, or other activities to help our environment.
Access a vast library of audiobooks, podcasts, and original content through Audible Plus! Find thousands of titles, some read by famous names. Get your free 30-day trial!
Or try Chirp Audiobooks to discover thousands of bestselling audiobooks at an affordable price.
This e-Reader and Cover earned a Climate Pledge Friendly badge
Not only is this Kindle Paperwhite top-rated and a best seller, but it’s also a win for eco-conscious book lovers. The “Climate Pledge Friendly” badge means this Kindle meets sustainability standards for offsetting carbon emissions. Feel good about helping the planet while you enjoy the 6.8-inch glare-free display with an adjustable warm light that’s easy on your eyes.
Pair your new Kindle Paperwhite with a Cork Cover that fits it perfectly, has a cool, earthy look, and has earned a “Climate Pledge Friendly” badge! It has positive reviews from readers who switched from the leather version.
Best Places to Find eBooks
Kindle Unlimited Membership Plans allow users to access over one million ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines. Get a 30-day free trial or an incredible two-month deal for $4.99 (originally $19.98)
Also, as a member of Amazon Prime, don’t miss Amazon First Reads for early access to Kindle books.
Barnes & Noble offers a vast ebook selection from various publishers and genres, including new releases and fantastic book deals.
Buy Used Books Online
Used books are a wonderful way to reduce waste and spread the love of reading. If you want to earn extra sustainability points, upcycle used books when you’re done with them. Donate books you’re finished reading to friends, a little free library or your local library.
Books-A-Million
Search for used books through the Books-a-Million site, especially if you’re looking for rare or unusual finds. Plus, you may be able to sell your used books through your local store!
Save up to 80% on clearance items! Shop the clearance selection at Booksamillion.com — Shop Today.Thriftbooks
With a database of over 13 million books, Thriftbooks offers a wide selection of genres for readers to find great used books at affordable prices. Plus, Thriftbooks thoroughly inspects and grades each book before selling it.
Biblio
Strongly committed to sustainability, Biblio focuses on reducing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices in the book industry. It offers a huge selection of new, used, and rare books from independent sellers and bookstores worldwide, making it a go-to destination for book lovers and collectors.
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Shop Sustainable Gift Ideas for Book Lovers
Made Trade
Made Trade collaborates with independent and conscious artisans to showcase their craft and provide a sustainable solution to fashion. They offer a wide range of ethically made products, including gorgeous clothing, accessories, home goods, and beauty items.
Shop for Sustainable Gifts at MadeTrade.com!
10% off Gifts at MadeTrade with code ECOGIFTS + Free Carbon Neutral Shipping on orders $100+. Limited-time offer.Here are three great finds!
The Executive Work Tote Bag can easily hold your used or borrowed book and all your other necessities!
Impress your book club with this Recycled Wine Cooler Decanter. It has a clever built-in chamber where you can add ice, so you can cool your Pinot Grigio without watering it down. Cheers!
This Jute and Seagrass Coaster Gift Set will impress as a hostess gift for your next in-person book club meeting. Or buy it as a happy surprise for your book-lover friend who’s also into being eco-friendly!
Amazon Aware
Every product featured on Amazon Aware has earned its right to be part of the Climate Pledge Friendly program and is certified as carbon neutral.
Enjoy Mother Nature in this folding Adirondack Chair (See price on Amazon)! And it includes a matching side table to rest your drink as you kick back with your book. It’s easy to assemble and made with low-maintenance materials.
As you relax on a beautiful day in an Adirondack chair or other comfy place, indulge in a soft relaxed-fit pullover or other sustainable loungewear perfect for chilling with a good book.
Buy Eco-Friendly Products
Kick your plastic water bottle habit! Stay hydrated as you read, and know you’re keeping waste out of the landfills with your reusable cup. Check out this trendy Stanley Insulated Tumbler with Lid that comes in tons of cute colors!
Aw, the scent smell of helping the planet! This adorable Beeswax Candle Tin comes in a natural honey scent. Light it to set the eco-friendly mood as you read!
Books and coffee go well together. Making coffee at home and reducing waste from disposable cups from your favorite chain? Now that goes even better together! You won’t miss buying coffee with the delicious results you’ll get from this French Press Coffee Maker!
Final Thoughts on Sustainable Bookish Gifts (for Book Lovers and Earth Lovers!)
So there you have it—a list of sustainable gift ideas for the book lovers in your life! Remember, by choosing eco-friendly and thoughtful gifts, you’ll bring joy to your loved ones and also contribute to a greener planet. It’s a win-win!
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