We propose a list of books, restaurants and brands of cosmetics, ceramics or shoes with a philosophy focused on respect for the planet.
Although Christmas is an invitation to consumerism, it is possible to give gifts with a conscience and with the well-being of the planet in mind. Everything counts: from the packaging to the materials used to make the product. That is why we would like to offer you some gift ideas for the festive season.
One of the most successful products is always cosmetics. We opt for natural and organic cosmetic brands, as they are healthy alternatives for skin care. They are formulated with ingredients of natural origin and avoid the use of harsh chemicals and synthetics. The ingredients come from plants, flowers, fruits and essential oils, and many of them contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help to revitalise and nourish the skin. Natural cosmetics also have a positive impact on the environment, as they use biodegradable or recyclable packaging and materials, and often local ingredients. Examples of brands are Mamita Botanical or Rassa Botanicals.
SAMPERE plates. Editorial credit for the brand.
It is also a good option to give books as gifts. Some of the titles we like best for living more consciously are The Well-Gardened Mind: The Benefits of Living at the Rhythm of Plants, by Sue Stuart-Smith; World Central Kitchen’s Recipes for Nourishing Humanity and Hope, by José Andrés; Fitópolis, the Living City, by Stefano Mancuso; The Five Elements. A Primer on Ecological Literacy, by Yayo Herrero; Lo-TEK. Design by Radical Indigenism, by Julia Watson and Contra la sostenibilidad, by Andreu Escrivà.
Shoes are another of the gifts that don’t usually fail. Two brands we really like stand out for their quality, design and local production: About Arianne and Hereu. The first, founded by Ariadna Guirado Costa in 2010, offers a new vision of classic shoes with a traditional production. The second, born in 2014 with products created in Spain by a family of facturers.
About Arianne shoes. Brand editorial credit.
For those who prefer experiences to physical gifts, we can’t think of a better plan than a trip to a sustainable restaurant, such as Les Cols, owned by chef Fina Puigdevall. Together with her daughters Clara, Martina and Carlota, and her husband, Manel Puigvert, they build the creativity of the gastronomic project based on the seasonality of food, sustainability (with their own garden that can be visited in the R&D of Casa Horitzó) and the use of products from the volcanic region of La Garrotxa.
Also with a Michelin Green Star is the restaurant L’Antic Molí. They defend the Slow Food philosophy with a local cuisine based on organic products and committed to the territory and the producers of ‘les terres de l’Ebre’.
If your plan is not to leave Barcelona, we recommend one of these 7 restaurants, considered the most sustainable according to the 360º Eat Guide.
