If you or someone you love is conscious about caring for the environment, then gift giving times can be less than joyful occasions. Packaging materials, ribbons, wrapping papers, and even the gift itself often demonstrate our wasteful tendencies when it comes to giving gifts. Being more environmentally considerate about what we give as gifts and how we present those gifts can go a long way to show our loved ones that we care about them as well as about the environment. Here are just a few unique gift ideas that are, in themselves environmentally friendly, but that would also appeal to anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Decorative Solar Lanterns

Affordable and functional, decorative solar lanterns make a beautiful addition to an outdoor dining table or sitting area. Powered by the day's sunlight, most high quality solar lanterns will illuminate the surrounding area with an energy-saving LED bulb for up to 8 hours once the sun has set. No operating costs means no impact on the environment, and that is beautiful, indeed.

When thinking about how to present a small gift, such as a solar lantern, consider replacing traditional wrapping papers with cloth wrapping. Secure the cloth wrapping to the gift with colorful fabric ribbons. Whether you purchase a cloth bag, or make your own with leftover fabric from your closet, cloth wrapping is durable and can be used over and over again. Your friend will appreciate this additional gift.

Solar Fountains

Solar fountains for the garden, deck, or patio are another unique gift idea for the ecologically conscious outdoor enthusiast in your life. The gentle sound of running water is soothing to the mind and spirit, and it can help your friend wind down and relax after hectic days. Additionally, a solar fountain can become the central focal point in a garden or patio without requiring a nearby electrical outlet to power the water pump.

Depending on the size of the solar fountain you plan to give as a gift, you may wish to consider no wrapping whatsoever. Instead, add value to the gift by constructing it yourself ahead of time, choosing a location outdoors, and presenting it to your loved one so that he or she can enjoy it immediately. Because there are no electrical cords with which to be concerned, the solar fountain can be relocated easily if desired.

Recycled Rope Hammock Swing

A hammock swing is a gift idea that is rarely considered, but it's one that many people would love to receive. Unlike a traditional hammock, a hammock swing allows you to sit up comfortably and enjoy taking in the surroundings, reading a book, or having a conversation. Hammock swings can be constructed from weather-resistant outdoor fabrics or woven with rope materials, but the most environmentally-friendly hammock swing is one whose ropes are made from 100% recycled polyester fibers. These ropes are incredibly durable and resist moisture, mold, and harsh weather, but they are also soft to the touch like cotton.

While it may not be a good idea to install a hammock swing gift before giving it to your loved one, you can add value to the gift by installing it yourself once your friend chooses a location, or you can hire an installer to do the work. No wrapping is necessary for a hammock swing, but tying a decorative fabric bow around the gift before you present it can add a festive touch.

Gift giving doesn't have to continue to be as wasteful as it has always been. Creative wrappings that are reusable, or no wrappings, and gift choices that are sustainable as well as attractive and functional are some of the simple ways we can reduce our impact on the environment. By paying a little more attention to what we give and how we give it, we can make a big difference. Environmentally considerate gifts add value and joy to the giving, and to the receiving.