Last year’s holiday gift suggestions were such a hit, we decided to do it again. All of us at Cost Control Associates know how difficult it can be to find the perfect holiday gift for that special someone. To help with your holiday shopping, we offer this list of eco-friendly gifts. For everyone on your list, you’ll find that each is practical, energy-saving and fun!
E-bike
There are several E-bikes on the market. The re-chargeable electric motors can provide varying levels of assistance to riders. These motors are incorporated into various models, so whether you are looking for a mountain, road or leisure bike, there is an E-bike for you.
Even if you aren’t a bike enthusiast, a rider can ride longer or tackle daunting hills more easily. You might even be inclined to swap your car keys for your bike helmet on quick trips around town while saving gas and reducing emissions.
Smart Strip Surge Protector
This is an eco-friendly stocking stuffer that anyone can use. Most people know that electronics can still use considerable electricity even when turned off. But how practical is it to unplug your TV or other devices when not in use?
This power strip does the work for you. It shuts down the power to devices that are not in use and lets other electronics remain “always on.” If you have a cable box with DVR, you will want that to remain on, so you don’t miss recording your favorite shows, but there is no need to have your TV drawing electricity when you’re not home. This surge protector is a great solution for your home entertainment center and home office, allowing you to save electricity while still having your devices powered up when you need them.
14-in-1 Solar Robot Kit
Recommended for children 10 and up, this is a fun and educational building toy for kids. Instead of using a battery pack, there is a small solar panel that provides the power for the 14 different models. There are two levels of building difficulty that allow a variety of skill levels to enjoy the toy. It’s a great way to introduce children to electricity and the power of the sun!
Fleece-lined Socks for Women
You’ve installed your programmable thermostat and are making the effort to lower your heat and utility bills. Even with the best of intentions, if you feel cold, it’s hard to resist cranking up the heat.
Keep your feet warm with these fleece-lined socks. An alternative to slippers, these socks are stylish and warm. It’s a gift that is sure to be appreciated all winter long!
Men’s Sheepskin Moccasins
These classic slippers feature shearling to keep your feet warm and dry all through the cold season. They also feature a memory foam foot bed to ensure comfort and support. These can be your lounging-around footwear from morning ’til night when the temperature drops.
Keep that thermostat turned down, make a fire and enjoy a relaxing evening reading or watching a movie with these moccasins keeping your feet comfortable and cozy.
Solar Backpack with USB Output
Do you have a high school or college student who always seems to end up with a dead smartphone or tablet? This backpack has a solar panel built in, along with USB outputs to charge all electronics on the go. The solar panel is weather-resistant, so you can take it anywhere.
Featuring comfortable straps and enough room for all their gear, this is an eco-friendly and practical backpack that will eliminate the dread of low battery warnings on the kids’ mobile devices.
LED Hand-Powered Flashlight
This fun and educational crank flashlight is a great stocking stuffer. Recommended for children 3 and older, kids learn that energy can be generated without batteries. Flashlights have sparked play creativity in kids for decades, and a crank flashlight adds an extra dash of fun. Using their own hands, kids can generate enough power to light up the room! It’s a great emergency item for grown-up kids, too!
High Def LED 32-inch TV
If you still have an old, bulky CRT TV somewhere in your house, it might be time for an upgrade. With substantial price drops, you can get a more energy-efficient TV for less than $150. You’ll enjoy the upgrade in picture clarity and added features.
Newer TVs use about four times less electricity than CRT TVs. And the smaller the screen, the less expensive it is to run. This 32” TV is Energy Star Certified and uses only $6 in electricity per year. For a smaller room such as the kitchen, a 24” TV can operate for only $4 a year and can be purchased for $100 or less.
Don’t forget to recycle your old equipment responsibly. Contact your local municipality or waste management company for proper guidelines in the disposal of electronics.
Supersonic Hair Dryer
The company best known for revolutionizing the vacuum cleaner spent four years and $71 million designing a hair dryer. With a $300 price tag, it is not the most affordable option, but there are definite benefits to consider.
A hair dryer is a surprising electricity hog. Outside of major appliances (water heater, refrigerator, dryer, TV, etc.), a hair dryer used daily can be your most expensive appliance. It uses more electricity than a microwave and is generally used for a longer duration than heating up your breakfast.
At 1600 watts the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is similar to most other hair dryers on the market. However, it claims to dry your hair in less than half the time of a conventional hair dryer, so you’ll spend half as much on electricity. In addition, you’ll save yourself precious minutes to help you get out the door on time!
Happy Holidays & Happy Shopping!
Lisa Miller is marketing and communications manager for Cost Control Associates. She joined Cost Control Associates in 2015, bringing more than 25 years of experience in marketing and corporate communications to her position. Lisa earned her BA from Skidmore College. Learn more.