Sustainability Trends in Promo Products and Apparel

The use of branded merchandise has long been recognized as an effective means of creating a lasting impression and nurturing brand loyalty among consumers. The trends in this area are rapidly evolving, and one of the most prominent trends in 2024 is the focus on sustainability.

As people become more environmentally conscious, the shift towards living an eco-friendlier and more sustainable lifestyle has grown exponentially. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchases and are seeking out products and companies that align with their values. The demand for branded merchandise with a low environmental impact has surged as more companies and consumers alike expect branded products, gifts, and packaging to be eco-friendly.

Brands that offer eco-friendly merchandise, such as products made from recycled materials or biodegradable items, are not only fulfilling their responsibilities towards the planet but are also appealing to a growing demographic of environmentally conscious customers. With that in mind, are YOU thinking ‘sustainability’ when it comes to your promotional products and apparel?

Check out our eco-friendly promotional products

What Does Sustainability Mean?

In the context of branded merchandise and gifting, sustainability involves a variety of environmental factors such as carbon emissions, water usage, and recyclability. Sustainability involves meeting the present needs without sacrificing the ability of future generations to meet theirs. In layman’s terms, it means we don’t waste so many resources now to a point where there is nothing left for tomorrow.

For brands to be sustainable, they must consider the entire lifecycle of their products – from the materials’ sourcing to the end-user experience. To achieve this, eco-friendly packaging materials must be utilized, suppliers must be collaborated with in merchandising strategy, and energy-efficient transit must be employed along with low- or zero-waste packaging.

Sustainable Trends to Watch 

1. Products made from biodegradable or compostable materials like bamboo, organic cotton, hemp, and mushrooms, or of recycled plastic (this includes textiles)
2. Products build to last longer and be easier to repair
3. Products made and sourced locally
4. Products that use recycled water in their manufacturing

Sustainability reporting will also become standard practice.  

To get your green on, focus on the following popular trends when looking for sustainable promotional products and apparel: 

• Single-use but earth-friendly products 
• Reusable products 
• High-end products meant to be kept
• Products made from recycled and/or biodegradable/compostable materials 

Products Made from Recycled Materials 

More and more brands are creating their products from recycled materials, minimizing their environmental impact by taking items such as single-use plastics and turning them into clothing and other products. Show your clients, customers, and employees that you’re committed to keeping your carbon footprint small with promotional products from our catalogue. 

Nike® Team rLegend Tee

Enviro Pen

Koozie® 40 Oz. Big Recycled Tumbler

The North Face® Classic Cap

Recycled Marine Bound JournalBook® Set

Port Authority® Eco Blend Canvas Tote Bag 

Products Made from Biodegradable Materials 

Promotional products made from biodegradable materials are made to break down through natural processes, which means they decompose without leaving toxins behind. Some materials to look for are compostable paper bags such as those made of natural kraft paper, or clothing made of cotton, hemp, bamboo, or jute. Check out some of our favorites below.  

18 Oz. Wheat Cup w/Handle

Eco Friendly Clear Toiletry Bag

Wheat Straw Box With Mints

Eco Friendly Bamboo/Wheat Straw 4-in-1 Cable

Deluxe Golf Tees, Ball Marker & Divot Tool Set

Sustainable Services 

Worried about putting too many promotional pens and pencils out into the world? Consider putting a TerraCycle’s Pens, Pencils, & Markers Zero Waste Box in your office. This box is used to collect old writing tools, which are then shipped back to TerraCycle, which then sorts and recycles the accepted waste into new products and materials.

Environmental considerations are no longer an optional extra for businesses. It is now essential for companies of all sizes to adopt environmentally friendly practices. However, promotional products are often seen as cheap and disposable items that end up in landfills. How can they remain useful while not creating more waste?  

Guernsey can help you find the perfect eco-friendly promotional options for your clients, customers, and employees that help you shrink your environmental footprint while still ensuring your brand grows. 

Reach out to us for all your eco-friendly promo product and apparel needs.