This time of year, it’s easy to get swept up in consuming new goods and buying a swathe of unnecessary items that are destined to end up in the backs of our drawers. We’re big on making conscious decisions when it comes to new purchases, so we felt it apt to shortlist some of the products that are giving back from business that are focused on doing good.

In need of more ideas? Read all our gift guides in the latest issue of est magazine here.

Wooden Christmas Tree

Christmas can often be an excuse to mindlessly consume goods that, come Easter, are bound for landfill. This season, we will be investing in a beautiful, Australian-made wooden tree ornament from independent design company One Two Tree. The most ethical festive gift that doesn’t compromise on style.

$599 AUD

Handwoven African Baskets

Handmade in Zambia, this set of 5 woven patterned baskets could be hung at varying heights for a unique, textural approach to wall art, or used to cradle bundles of lemons and limes – but no matter the use, it’s hard to deny their artisanal appeal. African Exchange Hub works hard to alleviate poverty in Africa, making these baskets a beautiful gift to give and receive.

$230 AUD

Organic Cotton Scarf

Even as the weather warms up in Australia, we always love the layering potential of a beautiful scarf. Mango’s Committed Collection features pieces that are produced with environmental sustainability in mind. This organic cotton and alpaca-blend fabric is understated and elegant, and makes a firm statement against the perils of fast-fashion.

$149.95 AUD

Brass Cuff

Made is on a mission to bring positive change to Kenyan artisans and their communities. This handmade gold cuff is both delicate and angular, with a hammered textured finish. Simple enough to incorporate into an everyday wardrobe, the feeling might be high-fashion but make no mistake: this is a grassroots way of supporting communities in need.

$35 AUD

Weekender Bag

Ethical fashion brand Sseko hires Ugandan women to earn money that goes directly towards their college education. Hand-crafted from Ethiopian oil-tanned leather, this weekender bag from their travel collection is perfect for keeping all the essentials in check when travelling, complete with drop handles as well as an adjustable and removable shoulder strap.

$399 AUD

Men’s Japanese Slim Fit Shirt

Everlane works hard to offer it’s customers transparency on production – a rare feat in the world of fashion. This Japanese Slim Fit Oxford shirt is a stylish classic, made in Japan from slow-spun cotton yarn. And while you can pick from a number of colour combinations, we find it hard to go beyond the timeless appeal of blue and white.

$75 AUD

Titanium Drinking Bottle

A simple solution to a huge problem – S’well creates beautiful water bottles in a bid to rid the world of plastic water bottles. This clean and minimal premium bottle in silver titanium has an appealing lustre and reflective finish. Triple-walled for maximum insulation, leaving no condensation on the exterior, the contents can be kept warm for up to 12 hours or cold for 24.

$42 AUD