10 Eco-Friendly Party Favour Ideas
It has become common knowledge that plastic has a negative impact on our environment. One of the most significant issues with plastic is that it is not biodegradable. If it does break down, it simply becomes thousands of smaller pieces of plastic which then infiltrate our waterways and land environments.
Party favours have long been a fun way to thank guests for attending our parties. The challenge now is how we can do this thoughtfully and without contributing plastic waste to our landfills.
To help you with your party planning, we have come up with ten eco-friendly party favour ideas that will not only impress your guests but also be kind to the earth. We hope this list will inspire you to make a step towards reducing the environmental impact of your parties.
1 | Seeds
Not only do these come in paper packaging but they also allow children to experience the wonder of watching something grow.
2 | Homemade Playdough
Why not whip up a batch or two of homemade playdough in different colours? Divide it up and pop it in recycled glass jars with beautiful personalised name tags.
3 | Op Shop Finds
Rather than generating more waste by purchasing something new, try buying items that are already in circulation. Op shops are great places to find trinkets and other small items that are perfect for adding to party bags. Jewellery such as necklaces and clip-on earrings would make great dress up accessories for your party guests!
4 | Scrunchies
There are some lovely small businesses in New Zealand who make scrunchies from recycled fabric. If you’re crafty, you could try making your own out of some used clothing. Or, why not have your guests make them as a party activity?
5 | Wooden Toys
Wooden toys are not only long lasting but also biodegradable. Look for sets of wooden animals, food, cars or people - ideally sets that do not come wrapped in plastic!
6 | Baking
Send guests home with some homemade biscuits, brownie or one of your favourite treats. You can wrap them in some baking paper, tie them with string and make a handcrafted ‘thank you’ tag.
7 | Flowers
Flowers are usually a gift we reserve for adults, but how many children would love their own mini bunch of flowers to take home and adorn their bedside table or drawers?
8 | Handcrafted Items
Have the party girl or boy help you to hand-make something for the party guests. You could make origami animals, braided cotton bracelets, salt dough decorations or even DIY snow globes using op shop finds. The options are endless!
9 | Books
These can be used or new and if you purchase them in a set, you can divide them up between your party guests.
10 | No Favours
This is likely not an option for everyone, but what could possibly be more eco-friendly than providing no favours? And unlike the temporary joy of party favours, the memories of your event will last a lifetime. What could be a better gift than that?!