The holidays are around the corner, and you know what that means…mindful shopping!  It’s always difficult to find the perfect gift, so to make things a little easier, I’ve complied a list of eco-friendly gifts to keep in mind while you start your holiday shopping.  Gifts for loved ones and yourself.  Because it’s been a long year, and you deserve it!

Studio Hybrid – The Hybrid Desktop ($500 and up)
For the technological savvy, Dell has created a green desktop PC named Studio Hybrid.  The design uses energy-efficient Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Processors, which consumes about 70% less power than the typical computer.  It has an 87% efficient power supply, meeting with Energy Star 4.0 standards.  Going beyond the PC itself, Dell is packaging their desktop with 95% recyclable materials, and including printed documentation that is 75% less than typical desktops.  It also comes equipped with a system-recycling kit to help reduce waste.  The sleek and compact design comes in 7 shades, so you’ll be sure to find one that fits your style.

The Good Card – A Gift that Keeps on Giving ($10 and up)
The Network for Good has created a new kind of gift card named the Good Card.  It acts as a gift card for charities, allowing recipients to donate to charities of their choice, with 1.5 million charities to choose from.  It’s a gift that gives back.

Recycled Silver Juice Pack Clutch Bag – Fabulous! ($29)
Girls love their handbags, and this clutch made by Half the Sky Designs will make a hit at any holiday party.  It’s perfect for a night on the town, or to carry in your handbag during the day; it’s as cute as it is functional.  And, I bet you couldn’t tell that it’s made from cleaned plastic fruit juice packs handwoven together.  Yes, juice packs.  So, you’ll be reducing landfill buildup of non-biodegradable boxes, all while looking fabulous.

Natural Felt Cat Toy – Purrrrrfect ($4.99)
Your cat will adore these toys handcrafted by Mongolian herders.  They are filled with the aroma of catnip and natural lanolin oils that will be sure to drive your feline friend into kitty bliss.  And, when you purchase the toys, a portion will go toward supporting Mongolian herders in need of food, medicine, and clothing.  Your purchase will also go toward the conservation of snow leopards in the region, and help preserve the endangered species from extinction.  You’ll be spoiling your cat, while lending a hand and protecting an endangered species.

When you’re wrapping your gifts this year, be sure to opt for recyclable materials instead of boxes and traditional wrapping paper.  Use old magazines, maps, newspaper or vintage material for one-of-a-kind, truly personalized packaging!

Related:  previously on altCon -
Green Gifts that Give Back (12.3.08)

Green Gift Guide for the Holidays – by, Carrie (11.30.08)