14 sustainable giveaways to get REALLY excited about

It’s an old assumption that terms like ‘eco’ and ‘giveaways’ couldn’t co-exist in the same sentence.

Thankfully, advances in sustainable merchandise mean that now they can! There are plenty of amazing products available that we think would make the perfect ‘green’ giveaways for your next event.

With so many items that are either reusable, recyclable or even plantable (yes, plantable), you’re sure to find the right exciting match for your brand.

We want to help you make better, sustainable choices that will do your brand and the planet a world of good. Check out our 14 favourites below, and let us know what you think!

Want more content like this? Sign up for our newsletter, and you’ll receive all the latest trends and insights about marketing, merch and more straight to your inbox. It’s marketing inspiration as you’ve never seen it before.

Are giveaways worth it? 

It’s a fact that giveaways are what make conferences great. They’re perfect for creating that lasting impression on potential new clients, building your brand image, and drawing people to your stand.

And don’t forget: everyone loves a freebie!

The psychology behind giveaways

Dan Ariely, in his book “Predictably Irrational’,  states that people change their behavioural patterns and are more willing to comply when something free comes along. This is because it’s a powerful emotional trigger when there’s no risk attached to a decision, meaning your free merch is more than likely to draw people to your brand (with no extra effort on your part).

If you opt for giveaways that are eco-friendly, people are going to associate your brand with doing good, however briefly they are at your stand. This might make the difference between them remembering or forgetting you. 

Reduce

A great way to make your conference giveaways sustainable is to choose items that are made from recycled materials. Offsetting this usual useless waste by producing something completely new is a lifesaver when it comes to the planet. Here are just a few of our favourite recycled products that we think are perfect for event giveaways.

1) Recycled trolley coin keyring 

People love a practical gift. This recycled trolley keyring will draw attention to your stand, and with it also being so useful, who could resist? 

2) Impact cotton cap 

The perceived value of an item of clothing is everything when it comes to giveaways. If you keep your branding subtle, this cap is sure to become a firm favourite amongst prospective clients. And don’t forget, with every purchase of anything in our Impact collection, 2% of the proceeds will be donated to Water.org. This way, your giveaway can do even more good. 

3) rHIPS.b spork 

Sporks have never failed to get at least one chuckle at a conference. Made from recycled plastic and digitally printed with any logo, this spork will become a firm household staple in no time. 

These items are generally good at conferences for schools, universities and the hospitality sector.

If you’re interested in more information on the above products or seeing what other recycled merch we can offer, get in touch today.

Reuse

Reusable items are probably the most eco-friendly merch around as they will (hopefully) never end up in landfill waste. With the longevity of an item a key factor in its reusability, these giveaways are slightly more premium than typical choices. However, the wow factor they have on potential clients is second to none.

4) Reusable 300ml double-walled coffee cup 

This reusable double-walled coffee cup is the perfect premium conference giveaway. Cleverly designed to keep your morning brew warmer for longer, this lightweight, durable cup will become a firm favourite amongst your prospective clients, keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds. 

5) Vinga Lagoa RCS SS Bottle 600 ml  

 This 600 ml double-walled vacuum bottle is crafted from RCS-certified recycled stainless steel. Featuring a classic two-coloured striped pattern together with a sleek white silicone handle.  

6) Peru Blend 180 g/m² GRS Recycled  Drawstring Bag 5L

 The Peru Blend drawstring bag is made from 60% GRS certified recycled cotton and 40% GRS certified RPET, making it a strong yet lightweight option for everyday use. Easy to carry on the back or shoulder, it features a large main compartment with a cotton drawstring closure that allows quick opening and closing.  

These giveaways go down great at more corporate functions, or if you want to ensure your key contacts get a special treat from you. Interested in finding out more?

Take a look at our conference essentials collection for more giveaway ideas.

Recycle

We’re not going to pretend that all your giveaways are going to be kept forever. Sure, some will, and that’s great! But others will have fulfilled their purpose and will come to the end of their life sooner or later - whether that’s 6 months or 5 years, down the line. That’s why giveaways that can be easily recycled in household waste are a must, and these are our four favourites. 

7) Recycled paper notebook & pen 

It’s pretty common to be able to recycle your notebook. Just throw it in the paper bin, and you’re done, right? Wrong! Some notebooks can’t be recycled due to their cover, or any fixtures or fittings. With pens, it’s even more difficult when it comes to recycling. That’s why we love this notebook and pen combo made from recycled paper and biodegradable plastic parts. Just remove the ink from the pen and voila! Completely recyclable. 

8) Bamboo trolley coin

With £1 coins disappearing faster than the office biscuit stash, a trolley coin is essential for that weekly trip to the supermarket. This bamboo one is great with its simplistic design that makes any logo look fantastic. And, when you’re done with it, just separate the bamboo disc from the metal clip and put each in your home recycling. It’s as easy as that. 

P.S. We can also produce these really, really fast!

9) Cartoon Coloured Paper/Pla Corn Ball Pen 

Another bestseller that we just love! Pla corn is a sustainable alternative to plastic, made from, well, corn! It’s biodegradable and reusable, so it's a great material.

10) Jolly beans

Sweets are the epitome of the classic conference giveaway because no one can say no to a sweet treat! These jolly beans are our favourite as they’re packaged in a clear eco film bag inside a box made from FSC certified card (which means it can be recycled or composted when you’re done with it).

Also, how cool is the van design?

These can probably be called the “classics” when it comes to event giveaways. Recyclable items are at the forefront of clients’ minds when it comes to eco-products, and these are not going to disappoint. Chat with us today for your specialised quote. 

Grow

Now, these next ideas are ingenious for publicising your brand’s eco credentials. That’s because all of the items below can be planted at the end of their life! It’s a great way to get your clients involved with your brand. They’ll nurture their new plant friends, keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds. And, did we mention, they’re lots of fun?

11) Seed paper memo block

We hate the waste caused by memo blocks and sticky notes, but we also can’t live without them.

The solution?

This growable seed paper memo block! The paper is dotted with seeds, so once planted in soil, they’ll grow into a superb wildflower meadow.

12) Sprout pencil 

Like a regular pencil, but way better. When you’re finished with your sprout pencil, plant the nub in some soil and watch it grow. These make perfect giveaways as the pencil and packaging can be fully branded.

13) Plant It paper bookmarks

Never lose your place again! These Plant It paper bookmarks are available as wildflowers or herb mix selections. Great for throwing into a giveaway bag, these bookmarks are an easy way to get your brand out there, without breaking the bank.

14) Eco business cards  

We love these! Business cards are a must-have for any conference, and what better way to make a lasting impression than with a card your clients can plant? 

All of the above grow merch options make great ‘green’ giveaways. Check out how plants can grow your brand in other ways. 

Question time! Frequently asked questions about sustainable giveaways

1. What are sustainable giveaways?
Sustainable giveaways are promotional products designed with environmental impact in mind. They are typically reusable, recyclable, made from recycled materials, or plantable to reduce waste and support eco-friendly branding.

2. Why should brands choose sustainable promotional merchandise?
Eco-friendly giveaways help businesses align with sustainability values, strengthen brand perception, and appeal to audiences who prefer environmentally responsible companies.

3. What materials are commonly used in sustainable giveaways?
Common materials include recycled plastics, organic or recycled cotton, bamboo, wheat straw, and FSC-certified paper—materials that reduce reliance on virgin resources.

4. What are examples of sustainable event giveaways?
Popular options include reusable coffee cups, glass water bottles, recycled notebooks and pens, bamboo keyrings, tote bags made from recycled cotton, and plantable seed paper products.

5. Are sustainable giveaways more effective than traditional swag?
They can be. Practical and eco-friendly products often have a longer lifespan and stronger perceived value, meaning recipients are more likely to keep and use them—extending brand exposure over time.

Go eco, go giveaways!

If your giveaways are either reusable, recyclable, made from recycled materials or even plantable, you’re sure to cause a positive stir at your next conference. Why not check out all our other favourite conference essentials? Or get in touch with your merchandise consultant to brainstorm today by filling in the form below. 

We all love a freebie, so make sure your giveaways are good for the planet, too!

Want more content like this? Sign up for our newsletter, and you’ll receive all the latest trends and insights about marketing, merch and more straight to your inbox. It’s marketing inspiration as you’ve never seen it before.