From Recycled Plastic to Coffee Husk and Bamboo
In the world of promotional merchandise, eco-friendly products have come a long way. What began with simple items made from recycled cardboard and plastic has now blossomed into a diverse range of products crafted from innovative, sustainable materials like bamboo, corn, wheat, coffee husk, and sugar cane.
The market for eco-friendly products is expected to continue to grow, with the global green packaging market projected to reach $441 billion by 2027, according to a report by Allied Market Research.
To help business owners navigate the new world of eco-products, the merchandise experts at Purple Moon Promo have examined the evolution of sustainable merchandise from recycled plastic to a circular economy.
The Growing Demand for Sustainable Materials
The shift towards sustainable merch has been driven by changing consumer attitudes. A recent report by GlobalWebIndex found that 61% of consumers say they are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products. This figure is even higher among Millennials and Gen Z. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, customers are not only looking for products that claim to be ‘eco-friendly’. Still, they are also scrutinising the materials and manufacturing processes used.
Additionally, a survey by Nielsen found that 81% of global respondents feel strongly that companies should help improve the environment, highlighting the increasing expectation from consumers for brands to make eco-conscious choices, including in the products they use for promotion.
Traditional eco-friendly gifts, such as those made from recycled plastic, have paved the way for a new merchandise generation. These items are no longer just about using recycled materials; they are now being crafted from a variety of organic, renewable, and biodegradable resources.
The new wave of sustainable materials is gaining ground, as seen in the increased use of
Bamboo
Its fast-growing nature and renewability make it a top choice for a range of products, from pens and notebooks to drinkware.
Coffee Husk
Utilising the by-products of coffee production not only reduces waste but also provides a durable material for items like reusable cups and even phone cases.
Corn and Wheat Straw
These agricultural by-products are finding their way into eco-friendly merchandise as alternatives to traditional plastics, offering a biodegradable solution for everyday items.
Sugar Cane
Often used to create bioplastic, sugar cane is a renewable resource that is increasingly being used in place of petroleum-based plastics.
Jute
Known as the “golden fibre,” jute is one of the most affordable and eco-friendly natural fibres available, with applications ranging across various products. Jute is often used for tote bags, ropes, and packaging materials that withstand everyday wear
Cork
Harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, cork is a renewable and recyclable material with unique properties. Naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, cork is well-suited for personal items and products with frequent handling.
Cotton
When sourced sustainably, cotton remains a popular choice for eco-conscious products. Soft, breathable, and versatile, it’s ideal for apparel, reusable bags, and home textiles.
rPET
Used widely in clothing, bags, and drinkware, rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) is durable and lightweight, with a similar texture and strength to new plastic.
However, as the industry continues to grow, the options become near limitless, with other popular materials including rice, stone, aluminium, milk cartons, denim, felt, grass and hemp.
This evolution in the materials used is also reflected in the range of products that can now be offered in an eco-friendly option.
Years ago, the best the industry could offer environmentally conscious consumers were basic desktop items made from recycled plastic or paper e.g. plastic/paper pens and plastic coasters. Now companies can offer everything from bamboo speakers, wireless charging pads, sugar cane take-out mugs and organic clothing.
A Growing Impact Takes Root
As the popularity of eco-products grows, so too has their impact on wider business areas from the accessibility of their price points to packaging options.
Today, eco-friendly items are often as cost-effective as standard merchandise options, allowing brands to go green without compromising budgets. For products that come at a slightly higher cost, the additional investment is often recouped through:
Enhanced Brand Perception
Consumers appreciate eco-friendly choices, and studies show they’re willing to pay more for brands that prioritise the environment.
Long-Term Value
Eco-products are often durable, biodegradable, or reusable, which means they’re designed for longevity—ensuring ongoing brand visibility.
In addition to the products themselves, businesses now prioritise eco-friendly packaging solutions for a full-circle approach to sustainability. Most eco-products come packaged in materials made from recycled or biodegradable materials, like paper and cardboard, aligning with eco-conscious values.
Plus, there has been an increased rise in the number of products that are also vegetarian or vegan, Fairtrade certified, and ethically sourced.
Why the New Wave of Eco-Friendly Materials?
Using alternative materials such as bamboo, coffee husk, and sugar cane represents a shift towards a circular economy. These materials are often by-products of other industries, reducing waste and finding new uses for what would otherwise be discarded. For instance, coffee husk, a by-product of the coffee production process, is being used to create durable and stylish promotional items like reusable coffee cups. Similarly, bamboo, which is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet, is an excellent alternative to plastic due to its renewability and biodegradability.
The diversity of sustainable materials now available means that companies can find the right eco-friendly product that not only meets their brand needs but also aligns with their environmental values. This evolution from basic recycled products to a new generation of sustainable materials helps businesses better connect with eco-conscious consumers, who are increasingly looking for brands that take sustainability seriously.
Expert Tips on Using Eco-Friendly Merch to Demonstrate Your Brand’s Eco Values
Choose Materials That Align with Your Brand’s Story
The material you choose for your promotional merchandise should resonate with your brand’s story. For example, if your company is in the food and beverage industry, products made from materials like coffee husk or wheat straw can help reinforce your connection to natural, food-based resources. If your brand focuses on outdoor activities, merchandise made from bamboo or recycled wood may better represent your values.
Transparency Is Key—Avoid Greenwashing
With sustainability comes the responsibility to be transparent about your choices. Greenwashing, or making misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product, can damage your brand’s reputation. To avoid this, provide detailed information about the materials used in your merch, the manufacturing process, and any certifications the products carry (such as FSC for wood and paper products or GOTS for textiles). Being open about the lifecycle of your products will help build trust with eco-conscious consumers.
Quality Over Quantity
Eco-friendly products shouldn’t just be sustainable—they should also be high quality. Offering well-made, durable merchandise not only reduces waste but also reflects positively on your brand. Items that break or degrade quickly can lead to a negative perception, even if they are made from eco-friendly materials. Invest in quality products that consumers will want to use repeatedly, thus extending their lifecycle and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Align with Your Audience’s Values
Understanding your audience is key to choosing the right eco-friendly merchandise. If your customer base is particularly passionate about environmental issues, opt for products made from the latest sustainable materials like bamboo or corn-starch. On the other hand, if your audience prioritises practicality, consider eco-friendly items that also offer functionality, such as reusable shopping bags made from recycled PET or multi-use tools crafted from sustainable wood.
Support Circular Economy Initiatives
Consider choosing products that are not only made from recycled materials but are also recyclable at the end of their life. This commitment to a circular economy can set your brand apart and add a layer of credibility to your sustainability efforts. When selecting your promotional merchandise, look for products designed with end-of-life considerations in mind, such as biodegradable options or items that can be easily disassembled for recycling.
Alexia Kyprianou, explains:
“As sustainability becomes embedded in consumer expectations, the evolution of eco-friendly merchandise will continue to push boundaries. We can expect to see even more innovative materials, more transparency, and a stronger focus on the full lifecycle of products. For businesses, this presents an opportunity to not only meet customer expectations but also to lead the charge in making a positive impact on the planet.
“Choosing the right eco-friendly merch can be a powerful way for brands to communicate their values and connect with like-minded consumers. One area in which we’ve seen considerable growth is with our seed products. Initially, our seed collection was limited to branded seed packets and mini grow kits, ideal for eco-friendly giveaways that encourage a connection with nature. Today, we offer a full suite of plantable items, designed to leave a green impression long after the promotion ends. In fact, we now offer a dedicated seed section including plantable products that are made using seeds e.g. seed bookmarks, notebooks, paper, coasters, business stationery, lanyards etc.
“By focusing on high-quality, sustainably sourced materials, providing transparency, and aligning choices with the brand and audience, businesses can avoid greenwashing and truly demonstrate their commitment to a more sustainable future.”
Tips for how business owners can adopt eco-friendly practices in their merchandising strategy that feel authentic and avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing:
Choose Sustainable Materials That Align with Your Brand
Opt for materials that genuinely reduce environmental impact, like organic cotton, recycled polyester, or bamboo. Be clear about why these choices align with your brand’s values. For example, if you’re promoting a wellness brand, eco-conscious fabrics reinforce the natural, health-focused image.
Source Locally When Possible
Working with local manufacturers reduces the carbon footprint of transportation and supports local communities. Highlighting locally-made goods can resonate with customers and offer a tangible story about community support, reinforcing authenticity in your eco-efforts.
Emphasise Transparency in Sourcing and Production
Be open about your supply chain. For example, show customers exactly how a product is made and what materials are used. Certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS, or FSC add credibility and help demonstrate that your commitment to sustainability is more than skin-deep.
Minimise Packaging Waste
Use recycled or minimal packaging and let customers know why. For example, explain that your packaging is either biodegradable or recyclable, and encourage customers to recycle it. Adding a simple note like, “This packaging is made from 100% post-consumer materials” is a subtle way to underscore your eco-commitment.
Promote Products That Last, Not Trends
Offer high-quality, durable items instead of fast-fashion or single-use products. When you promote durable goods, you’re aligning with sustainable principles in a way that resonates. Your marketing can emphasise versatility and timeless style, helping to build a longer-lasting relationship with customers.
Engage in Eco-Initiatives Beyond Your Merchandise
Partner with environmental organisations or pledge a portion of sales to environmental causes. You could run programs where customers can donate or recycle old merchandise. This shows your commitment to sustainability goes beyond profit and is part of your company ethos.
Educate Your Customers About the Benefits and Impact
Use your platform to share how choosing eco-friendly merchandise benefits the environment. A blog post, video, or infographic explaining the impact of sustainable sourcing builds customer trust and shows that your commitment is genuine.
By genuinely embracing these practices, you show that your commitment to sustainability isn’t just a marketing tool but a core part of your brand’s values.
