Sustainable Father's Day Gift Ideas
My curated list of environmentally conscious gifts to satisfy any dad
Father’s Day always sneaks up on me. For my family, it coincides with several birthdays, trips out of town, and various end-of-year activities for my kids. So, despite the fact that I have great ideas throughout the year, I tend to run out at the last minute. Sometimes I nail it, and other times… not so much. The problem is, I’m prone to panic purchase something that doesn’t align with my environmental values.
This year, I’m not making that mistake, and neither are you. Here are some thoughtful, sustainable gift ideas that are sure to bring joy to the father in your life — and have a minimal impact on the planet.
Solios Watch
For a timeless timepiece, Solios makes watches with a minimal aesthetic and environmental footprint. Their watches solar-powered, eliminating the need for batteries — and waste. Plus they are made with the most sustainable materials possible: recycled stainless steel, vegan leather made from cork (not toxic PVC or PU), and ionic plating that prevents chemical waste. Even the packaging is plastic-free, with a watch pillow made of cork instead of petroleum-based materials like polyester or nylon. The first watch company to earn B-Corp certification, Solios is Canadian owned and operated.
Wood, Fire & Smoke by Michael Smith
With a lifetime of cooking over open flame, Canadian chef Michael Smith shares everything about cooking with live fire, from gathering wood to building and tending a fire to harnessing the power of smoke. He includes 80+ recipes, with meals that are wood-grilled, wood-smoked, wood oven–roasted (or baked), pit-smoked, plancha-seared, fire-kissed, barbecued, and charcoal-cooked. Whether dad loves to cook with a wood oven offset smoker, rotisserie grill, campfire, or wood candle, this cookbook will get him fired up. And the rest of the family will benefit as well!
Carbon Steel Griddle
No need to worry about harmful chemicals — this griddle is naturally non-stick. Made from professional grade 4mm carbon steel, it has the heat retention of cast iron and can withstand temperatures up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s light enough to move from stovetop to grill, and you can use it on induction cooktops. With an 8.5" x 17.5" cooking surface area, it fits over two burners for dual-zone cooking. It comes pre-seasoned with a mixture of coconut oil and shea nut oil, so dad can get cooking right away.
Men’s Modern Moccasins
For a unique, standout gift that directly supports Indigenous people, check out the Men’s Modern Moccasins. Designed by Métis artist Kaija Heitland for Canadian company Manitobah, these moccasins are classically constructed with a modern twist. They are crafted with top-grade leather and a natural rubber outsole for a comfy, barefoot feel.
Henson Safety Razor
If he doesn’t have a safety razor, this gift is a game changer. Safety razors reduce shaving irritation, leave skin smooth, and offer a superior shave. Best of all, they reduce plastic waste: a good safety razor will last a lifetime, and the blades can be recycled. Henson razors are designed, manufactured, assembled and packaged in Canada. Fun fact: Henson started out making parts for large aerospace projects, and they made critical components for the OneWeb constellation and parts for the Exo Mars rover.
Natural Linen Apron
Made of sustainably grown flax linen, this apron is lightweight and breathable. With convertible straps, it can be worn cross-back or over the shoulders. It features two front pockets for holding a phone, cooking implements, or other kitchen essentials.
A Father's Life: I Want to Know Everything About You
This beautiful book is full of inspirational quotes and thought-provoking writing prompts to help a father share the experiences that has shaped his life. Chapters are organized by life stages, from childhood through adulthood, with space for dad to share wisdom, reflections and advice. What a lovely way to get to know your father better and have a legacy you can treasure forever.
Wooden Pickleball Paddle
Made by a woodworker and avid pickleball player, these custom pickleball paddles are both functional and beautiful. Each paddle is handcrafted from American Cherry wood, with a customized center fill line and grip. Choose from a range of custom grip designs that are both comfortable and stylish.
Photo Album
Chances are, you have plenty of photos of dad stashed on your devices; consider turning them into a photobook that will be cherished. My go-to print lab is Pikto, located in Toronto. Their ReNew Photobook is crafted with recycled board and sustainable linen, and printed with compostable inks on recycled paper.
Experience Gifts
Some of the best presents aren’t things — they are experiences. Whether you gift something he can do alone or with you, experiences don’t require packaging waste and won’t collect dust or wind up in the landfill. Here are a few ideas:
For the music lover: Tickets to a concert or the symphony, or music lessons
For the sports fan: Tickets to a game, or even season tickets
For the art lover: A membership to an art gallery, tickets to an exhibit, or art classes
For the gym rat: Membership to a gym or sessions with a trainer
For the lifelong learner: Part-time classes, a workshop, or a membership to a learning platform like MasterMind
For the dad who needs to unwind: A day at a spa or retreat centre
I hope these gift ideas help you find the perfect present for the father in your life. If you have any other ideas you think I should include next time, let me know!
Yours for the Greener Good,
Brett