We don’t talk much about men or fathers here at Simple Organic, but every now and then we need to shine the spotlight on the men in our life, be they fathers, brothers, husbands, or lovers.
Father’s Day is coming up this Sunday, June 20, so today we’ll look at a few ways to celebrate our dads and celebrate the Earth while we’re at it. (A lot of these ideas could apply anytime you want to give kudos to the man in your life, so take note!)
For the Golf Lovers
Many people aren’t aware that the construction and maintenance of a golf course is often very taxing on the environment; water usage, chemicals, and the excessive use of other natural resources are often the culprits in attempts to maintain beautiful, clean golf courses.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. An eco-friendly golf course can actually contribute to environmental protection efforts and the sustenance of natural flora and fauna. Find a certified eco-friendly golf course here, and buy the golf-loving dad in your life a round or two.
If he needs a new golf bag, Wilson makes one out of 100% recycled fabric. Pick up a few eco-golf balls while you’re at it – they dissolve in water and are biodegradable, leaving no trace behind. It’s a perfect green golf package.
Maybe Your Dad’s More the Fishing Type?
If your father (or the father of your children) prefers to spend his free time with a rod and reel rather than on the links, here are a few green ideas for him.
Photo by Ken Bosma
If he needs a new fishing pole, scout out an old vintage model, rather than buying new. There are many to be had on Ebay, and your local craigslist page probably has a few, too. You’ll also find a good selection here.
And many fishermen like to be able to listen to some nice tunes while they wait for a bite. A hand-cranked, solar-powered radio is the perfect solution when you’re out in the middle of nowhere, enjoying nature, and very far removed from any electricity or battery sources. A solar flashlight would be a nice addition, too.
And Speaking of Nature…
Don’t forget to look into this option: a yearly pass for your state parks or the national park system is a great option for any man who enjoys hiking, camping, or just spending time in the great outdoors.
Photo by Wolfgang Staudt
The national parks pass is only $80 a year, and allows up to four adults in one vehicle to enter the park. Children under 16 are free. What better way to slow down, enjoy family time, and have a little getaway from the everyday?
Grooming and Personal Care
If your father likes to be well-groomed, there are some great eco-friendly options available for him.
Graham Gardens Father’s Day Basket
My new favorite natural body care store, Graham Gardens, has put together a superb Father’s Day Gift Box. It includes a tube of BugBar Bug Block, Rugged Relief Salve, Peppermint Candy Lip Balm, Adventure Bay Lip Balm, Grease Monkey Soap, and your choice of either coffee or tea from the Baltimore Coffee Company. These body care products are all natural, and very effective.
Traditional Wet-Shaving
Another option for the well-groomed man is a traditional wet shaving kit, like Megan described for us back in April. If you missed this post, be sure to check it out – my husband ordered a traditional double-edge razor and blades after reading about it here and he really loves it. It is also a much more frugal and eco-friendly option!
Some Other Eco-Friendly Ideas for Dad
Here a few more suggestions:
• Bamboo socks. A sustainable, breathable natural fiber with wicking action, too.
• Local and/or organic beer or wine, depending on his pleasure.
• Organic, fair-trade coffee. Check out Greeley Road Cafe for delicious and slave-free coffees. They also have teas and tasty chocolates – yum!
• Stainless steel reusable water bottles, such as Klean Kanteen.
Of course, the greenest option for any celebration is not to purchase anything new, but to give the gift of time and love. Most dads would enjoy breakfast in bed just as much as any mom. Homemade cards and gifts are usually more meaningful than anything store-bought, especially when they’re from children. And a day spent doing just exactly what Dad would like to do is the best gift he could probably receive.
Happy Father’s Day to fathers everywhere!
How do you plan to celebrate Father’s Day? Can you make your plans any greener?
