You have a recycled cotton tote on your shoulder as you go through a busy market. The print still looks sharp, and the handles are strong. A small tag hidden by the seam gently tells you how many plastic bags you haven’t used because of this one. People see it when they are getting their stuff and then tell others about it while they are waiting in line. More about the author!
Drinkware with a deeper purpose has its own story to tell. A stainless steel insulated container that retains your drink at the right temperature is a good idea. Put a little QR code on it. When you scan it, it takes you to a short site with no fluff that tells you how to take care of it and what to do when you’re done. Every time someone takes a sip, it gently reminds them to think about waste without telling them what to do.
Gifts that can be planted make a mark long after the first exchange. People still love seed paper, but miniature basil planters with pots that break down in the soil make the message stick. The sun and water do the trick, and before you know it, someone is telling a visitor at dinner that their herbs came from your kit. It’s a brand tale that comes up in conversation in the kitchen.
Don’t use pens that you can toss away. A pen should last a long time. Choose a metal pen that can be refilled and has an ink cartridge that moves smoothly. Add another refill. No one loves to throw away a pen after a week. Two life for every pen equals less trash and your principles are clear.
Notebooks should make you want to retain them. Choose soft covers made of stone or recycled materials that have page numbers and a quick index. You can use dot grids for bullet lists and doodles. People are more likely to reach for it if it has smart, deliberate touches.
When done effectively, solar chargers can save your life outside of work. Give real, honest information. How to use it and how long it lasts, nothing fancy. Field teams recall gear that comes in handy when there isn’t an outlet around.
Another triumph is T-shirts made of organic cotton and printed using water-based inks. Before you buy, make sure the size and color are right. Every weekend, a shirt that fits just right comes out of the drawer and spreads your logo wherever people go.
Get rid of the foam and bubble wrap. Put your stuff in kraft boxes and seal them with paper tape. Let air protect what you send. Print small pictures that show how to recycle or reuse each piece, and make sure the directions are easy to understand.
In a few words, tell us what you saved. Got back 312 bottles. Less talk, greater effect. Before giving anything away, be sure to check all the parts, like the lids, fabric, and inks. If your green swag is better than ordinary stuff and doesn’t end up in the garbage, you’ve made a statement. If you want your message to stick, make it simple, last, and a little clever.