Corporate promotional products are powerful tools for brand visibility, but they often come with a cost to the environment. The good news? Sustainable corporate swag is not only possible, it’s easier than you think!
Whether you're planning a branded event, onboarding new hires, or sending thank-you gifts, here are five easy ways to make your corporate swag more sustainable so your brand makes a positive impact on both your audience and the planet.
1. Choose Reusable Over Disposable
One of the most effective ways to reduce waste is by choosing reusable promotional items.
Think:
These long-lasting products don’t just replace single-use plastic. They become useful, everyday reminders of your brand’s values.
Pro tip: Add your logo subtly, so it complements rather than dominates the item. This increases the likelihood people will keep and use it.
2. Opt for Eco-Friendly Materials
When selecting products, go beyond aesthetics, look for eco-conscious materials that are responsibly sourced or biodegradable. Examples include:
Sustainable materials not only reduce your brand’s carbon footprint, but also communicate your environmental commitment to your customers and employees.
Learn more about the best practices for buying eco-friendly swag materials in our Sustainable Buyer’s Guide
3. Go Digital with Swag
Physical products aren't the only way to show appreciation or engage your audience. Digital swag is a zero-waste option that offers high perceived value:
E-gift cards (especially from eco-conscious brands)
Online subscriptions (like meditation apps or learning platforms)
Downloadable content (ebooks, toolkits, exclusive webinars)
Going digital reduces packaging, emissions, and clutter while still delivering brand impact.
4. Minimize Packaging Waste
Sustainability doesn’t stop with the product itself - packaging matters. Avoid plastic wrapping or filler and instead choose:
Compostable mailers
Recycled kraft boxes
Seed paper sleeves
No packaging at all (when practical)
When you do use packaging, keep it minimal, functional, and recyclable. Every layer of packaging you eliminate is one less thing ending up in a landfill.
Sustainability bonus: Add a QR code with info about the product’s environmental benefits or your brand’s green initiatives.
5. Support Ethical and Sustainable Suppliers
Partnering with suppliers who share your values is essential. Do your homework and work with vendors who:
Use certified sustainable materials (like GOTS, FSC, or Fair Trade)
Follow ethical labor practices
Publish transparent sustainability reports
When you support responsible suppliers, you’re contributing to a greener supply chain and helping to raise the bar for the entire promotional products industry.
Easily sort by products that support environmental causes using the 🐟 Environmental Causes Emoji rating on our website!
FAQs:
Q: What are some of the best sustainable promotional products?
A: Popular eco-friendly swag includes reusable water bottles, organic cotton tote bags, bamboo cutlery sets, and recycled notebooks.
Q: How do I know if a product is truly sustainable?
A: Look for certifications like GOTS, FSC, Fair Trade, or items made from recycled or biodegradable materials. Ask suppliers for proof of sourcing and ethical practices.
Q: Is sustainable swag more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. While some eco products have a higher upfront cost, they offer better ROI due to longer life, better brand perception, and reduced waste-related costs.
Ready to Make the Switch to Sustainable Swag?
Small changes make a big impact. By choosing eco-friendly promotional products, you can:
Reduce waste
Align with your company’s sustainability goals
Build stronger, values-driven brand loyalty
Shop Ethical Swag’s eco-friendly swag collection or reach out to info@ethicalswag.com to get started.