December 22, 2009

Searching for more mindfully-made gifts this season that are eco-conscious and made with compassion? Gifts made for vegans are great for anyone who cares about animals, people and the planet.  Taking a stand to be vegan means giving up products that in any way harm or use animals, and as such, products carrying the vegan tag are often a sign of thoughtful attention to materials, sources, and ethical manufacturing in all regards.

Vegans themselves have launched entrepreneurial ventures to serve a growing market of conscious consumers. Just this month, Cocoa V opened a chocolate store in NY city with 100% vegan ingredients. Made from soy, nuts, and other animal-free ingredients, the store offers a scrumptious gourmet chocolate experience that non-vegans will enjoy.

Shoe alternatives for vegans are often the most difficult to find, and not all vegan shoes are eco-conscious, so it’s worth checking the ingredients tag. Smartfish is a shoe brand sold on Etsy that offers canvas shoes that meet the highest green standards, using low-impact dyes, natural latex outsoles, salvaged cork, and bamboo. These fun fashionable shoes are also made in the USA.

Jewelry is an easy way to go vegan without any sacrifice. A limited edition necklace by Figs and Ginger raises money for the Farm Sanctuary, and is sourced from a minimum of 50% recycled aluminum and other metals. Check their website for an upcoming wedding line if your looking to make a greater vegan commitment in your life.

For other vegan gift ideas, check out Ecoterre’s guide for ideas that are eco-chic and made with a conscience.

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Jill Fehrenbacher, Article, going green, Inhabitat