If you are a regular reader you’ve probably already seen that we couldn’t keep our Father’s Day gift list to a single article. We split it up into several to offer more ideas for different types of dads. In case you missed them, be sure to check them out.
DIY Comic Book Coasters - For the geeky dad with a comic book collection (warning: do not use your dad’s comics for this project) this is a wonderful way to showcase his passion with functionality. Full instructions at ModPodgerRocksBlog.com
Plant A Tree
Make this Father’s Day one to remember by planting a tree in your dad’s honor. You can even make it a bonding activity by planting the tree together.
Amazon Shopping
Amazon is the largest online retailer in the world and has almost 140 million products for sale. Although it doesn’t offer the most intimate shopping experience it is the best place to order a last minute gift for your dad this Father’s Day. Many of us procrastinate and Amazon is there to (thankfully) save the day.
There are plenty of techy gadgets available for dads who love technology, but trying to find the eco-friendly gadgets can be a challenge. After looking through the different gifts available we found six that stood out (three are dedicated to Mac lovers!) for you to get inspiration. You’ll find a power strip to stop vampire drain and even wooden radios.
Handcrafted from sustainable forest resources this wooden radio ($225-$300) features AM/FM with the capability of connecting an external audio source, like mp4 players and the iPod. :: Available at Amazon
USB EcoStrip 2.0
This power strip is perfect for dad to charge all his eco-gadgets. The USB EcoStrip 2.0 (about $40) received the Gold Standard Award for eliminating the “vampire” drain of electronics. :: Available at EcoStrip
From EcoStrip:EcoStrip 2.0 was presented with the “Gold Standard Award” for eliminating standby power and is widely recognized today as the best new energy saving product. EcoStrip 2.0 is an energy saving power strip with surge protection designed with corporate sustainability in mind.
Solio Universal Hybrid Solar Charger
One of the more popular solar chargers on the market the Solio universal solar charger (about $88) works by absorbing electrical power from direct sunlight or wall socket. All dad needs to do is spread out the fan blades for maximum surface area to collect the solar energy. :: Available at Amazon
Mac Related Gift Ideas
If your dad loves Apple and Mac, then why not give the gift of a Mac accessory this Father’s Day. Here are a few eco-friendly gadget gifts for the Mac lover.
Wooden Alarm Dock
Made from sustainably harvested Beech wood, this alarm dock by Areaware ($31.99) provides a dual purpose docking station for your dad’s iPhone or iPod Touch. :: Available at Amazon
SUBSTRATA wood cases for iPAD and iPAD 2
Handcrafted and sustainable, these iPAD (starting at $175) and iPAD 2 (starting at $95) wood cases offer stylish protection with exotic woods. And SUBSTRATA is all about sustainability so the exotic woods are only harvested from mature trees from sawmills that practice sustainable forestry practices. This includes several sawmills over 80 years old. :: Available at SUBSTRATA (shipping in 3-5 weeks)
i-Ecko Cardboard Speakers
Made from recycled materials and sustainable natural fibers these cardboard speakers ($13.99) are compact and easy for dad to bring on any trip. Easy to assemble and stores flat for easy portability, they are compatible with iPods, the iPhone 3G and other mp3 players. :: Available at Amazon
Many dads love being helpful and fixing things around the house. Whether your dad is a real Mr. Fix It or is closer to Tim “the tool man” Taylor (reference: Home Improvement), why not celebrate his passion with the perfect gift for a DIY enthusiast? Here are three gifts, two fun and one practical, for you to show dad how much you care.
This desktop organizer ($58) is quirky and fun for any desk. If your dad loves doing things himself he’ll appreciate this handmade desk organizer from salvaged tool parts and recycled steel. :: Available at Amazon
Perched Parrot
Help dad make a DIY statement with this handmade parrot ($98). Created in Utah designer Fred Conlon uses recycled materials, including an adjustable wrench for the body, a crest of nails for feathers, and cut steel wings. :: Available at Amazon
Rapid Battery Charger
Energy Star qualified this rapid battery charger by Makita ($160) charges Li-Ion batteries in about 30 minutes with the fast charge. :: Available at Amazon
Sport themed gifts for dads who love sports just makes sense. In addition to tickets to a favorite game or sports team, there are a few ideas that your dad will love! From recycled seats from their favorite stadium turned into cufflinks to reclaimed wood bottle openers and pens to eco golf balls, you’re sure to find the perfect unique sports themed gift for your dad this Father’s Day.
Handmade from salvaged ballpark seats these cufflinks ($170-$200) are sure to impress any baseball fan. Choose between some of the most well-known baseball stadiums, including Fenway, Wrigley, Yankee, Dodger and more. :: Available at Amazon
Baseball Bat Bottle Opener
Made in the USA each baseball bat bottle opener ($85-$125) is handmade from reclaimed wood from some of the famous and most historic baseball stadiums around the country. :: Available at Amazon
Ballpark Pens
Another wonderful gift from Uncommon Goods, these Ballpark Pens ($170-$260) make great gifts for baseball collectors and fans. Made from salvaged wood from some of the most popular baseball stadiums, including Fenway, Wrigley and Yankee, each pen is handmade. :: Available at Amazon
Football Lovers
Bottle Cap Belt
Handcrafted in the USA these belts ($35-$50) are made by Littlearth with recycled rubber for the belt with a seatbelt buckle that doubles as a bottle opener. With several of the popular Football teams available to choose from you can get your devoted dad a gift any fan would love. :: Available at Amazon
Tire Tread Rubber Sports Balls
Both balls (under $15) are made from recycled tire tread making them easy to grip. These Baden X-Tread sports balls are official size for any sport loving dad. Perfect for playing on rough asphalt (black top) as they seem indestructible.
Here’s just one of the basketball reviews on Amazon:
I teach PE at an urban middle school where the kids play basketball on rough blacktop all day, and before I found this ball, I never found a ball that lasted longer than two weeks. But these basketballs appear to be indestructible, and the kids love them. They look undeniably cool, and they are tough and easy to play with, plus the cover retains its grip. (Sean Messenger)
For less than $1 a golf ball, this Wilson 12 Pack of Eco-Core Balls (about $10) helps eliminate extra trash sent to the landfills. The interior is filled with a core of recycled rubber tires. :: Available at Amazon
Who doesn’t love the outdoors? Nature at its finest can be enjoyed with hiking, mountain biking, camping and so many other activities. If your dad loves to head outside for fresh air, then you might want to consider these 5 gifts dedicated to the outdoor enthusiast this Father’s Day.
With plenty of pockets to choose from, the Refugio Pack (about $55-$85) is great for any outdoor enthusiast. The largest section is big enough for a laptop during the week and can hold a generous water bladder for weekend adventures. :: Available at Amazon (Note: The Refugio Pack is no longer available, but there are other options available.)
Upcycled Tent Dopp Kit
Handmade in Mexico, this Dopp Kit ($38) is made from reclaimed fabric discarded by camping tent manufacturers. Durable and lightweight, it’s perfect for camping. :: Available at Amazon
G-Shock Atomic Tough Solar Watch
Shock-resistant and water-resistant, the Casio G-Shock Atomic Tough Solar Watch ($99) only needs the sunlight to keep it running. :: Available at Amazon
BPA-Free Better Bottle
A spill-proof bottle is always desired on the hiking trails and bike paths. This BPA-Free Better Bottle by CamelBak ($10-26) is sure to fit the need and can be easily used with one hand. :: Available at Amazon
Solar Crank Radio
Whether your dad wants to charge this radio (about $30) with sunlight or a few cranks it is sure to help in any emergency situation. Dad is sure to take this small radio with him on any adventure. :: Available at Amazon
With more companies going “green” these days it’s getting easier to find stylish eco-friendly clothing options without spending a fortune. From recycled tires turned into flip flops to organic fabrics to recycled metals, green apparel never looked so good. Here’s 5 fantastic gifts for dad this Father’s Day.
Sunshine and warmth during the summer months make flip flops a wonderful choice for any dad. Made with 25% recycled rubber these EcoTread sandals ($85) offer comfortable support. :: Available at Amazon
Eco-Airflo Hat
Made of certified organic coton, this hat by Tilley ($77-$82) offers comfort and rugged appeal. There is even a secret pocket for hiding important items like his driver’s license or hotel room key. :: Available at Amazon
Past, Present, Future Watch
Help remind dad to stop and enjoy the present with this chic metal watch ($115). Made from stainless steel it’s water-resistant to 100 feet. :: Available at Uncommon Goods
Wooden Accessories
Army Wooden Watch
With every WEwood watch purchased, like this Army Wooden Watch (about $120), a tree is planted to help renew the forests. Made of 100% natural wood, mostly scrap-wood, this watch is sure to make a statement. :: Available at Red Envelope
Wood Tie
Made from reclaimed redwood beams from salvage yards in the San Francisco area, these wood ties ($34.00 – $42.00) make wonderful fashion accessories for a man with a sense of humor. :: Available at Uncommon Goods
With Father’s Day just around the corner (June 17th!), we decided to compile a few lists for you to get some eco-friendly inspiration. Here’s a brief overview of some of the top gifts for Earth friendly dads.
From recycled glass to sustainable wood harvesting to solar gadgets to funky recycled sculptures, there are many different ideas to help you find the perfect gift to show dad how much he means to you this year.
Made from recycled Don Julio Tequila bottles, this cigar ashtray ($21) offers a slight blue glow in front of the light. :: Available at Hipcycle
Stylish Dad
Army Wooden Watch
With every WEwood watch purchased, like this Army Wooden Watch (about $120), a tree is planted to help renew the forests. Made of 100% natural wood, mostly scrap-wood, this watch is sure to make a statement. :: Available at Red Envelope
Outdoor Dad
Solar Crank Radio
Whether your dad wants to charge this radio (about $30) with sunlight or a few cranks it is sure to help in any emergency situation. Dad is sure to take this small radio with him on any adventure. :: Available at Amazon
Sports Loving Dad
Baseball Bat Bottle Opener
Made in the USA each baseball bat bottle opener ($85-$125) is handmade from reclaimed wood from some of the famous and most historic baseball stadiums around the country. :: Available at Amazon
Eco-Friendly DIY Dad
Perched Parrot
Help dad make a DIY statement with this handmade parrot ($98). Created in Utah designer Fred Conlon uses recycled materials, including an adjustable wrench for the body, a crest of nails for feathers, and cut steel wings. :: Available at Amazon
Eco-Geek Dad
Solio Universal Hybrid Solar Charger
One of the more popular solar chargers on the market the Solio universal solar charger (about $88) works by absorbing electrical power from direct sunlight or wall socket. All dad needs to do is spread out the fan blades for maximum surface area to collect the solar energy. :: Available at Amazon