🚀 The Event Playbook:
Proven strategies to level up your next event!
An eco-friendly collection on a wooden surface, featuring a green hoodie, a bottle of vitamins, and a reusable beige tote bag with "FORD" printed on it. Text reads "We & Goliath Eco-Friendly Swag.

Sustainable Swag Guide: Top Eco-Friendly Picks

Discover innovative eco-friendly promotional items that align with your brand values and make a lasting impact on clients and the environment.

Finding the right promotional items for your brand can be tricky.

You want something memorable and useful that aligns with your company’s values.

These days, that often means looking for eco-friendly and sustainable swag options.

We’ve been producing events for over 20 years.

During that time, we’ve seen a big shift in corporate gifting.

Clients don’t want cheap throwaway items anymore.

They’re after gifts that show they care about the environment.

Good news – there are tons of green promotional products available now.

From reusable water bottles to organic cotton totes, you’ve got options.

But with so many choices, where do you start?

Today we'll share our top picks for eco-conscious swag that will wow your guests and clients.

These sustainable items aren’t just good for the planet.

They’ll also leave a lasting impression.

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s talk about why eco-friendly promo items matter.

It’s not just about jumping on a trend.


A large group of people watching a large screen.
A yellow and black square on a black background.
An orange and black arrow with a black background.

One Event. Two Experiences.

Skillfully engage both your in-person and online attendees through our cutting-edge hybrid event production services.

Why Sustainable Swag Matters

Did you know the average conference attendee creates over 4 pounds of waste per day?

A lot of that comes from disposable swag like plastic pens and cheap sunglasses.

Multiply that by hundreds or thousands of people, and it really adds up.

Choosing reusable, biodegradable, or recycled materials for your branded merchandise can cut that waste way down.

You're sending a powerful message that your company cares about more than just profits.

Plus, consumers are rewarding businesses that prioritize sustainability.

A recent survey found nearly 80% of people are changing what they buy based on how eco-friendly products are.

When your swag aligns with those values, you’ll attract like-minded clients and partners.

Of course, not all eco-friendly promo items are equal.

To get the most bang for your buck, look for products that are:

  1. Made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled plastics
  2. Built to last, not quickly tossed
  3. Produced using environmentally responsible methods
  4. Certified by respected groups like Fair Trade or B Corporation

Now let’s explore some top categories and examples of eco-friendly swag for your next event or marketing campaign.

Sustainable Sipping: Reusable Water Bottles & More

Various reusable water bottles in different colors and sizes are arranged in a row on a pink surface with a plant shadow in the background.

One of the easiest swaps you can make is ditching single-use plastic water bottles for reusable ones.

Branded reusable bottles not only cut waste, but they also advertise your logo every time someone takes a drink.

Eco-friendly water bottle options have come a long way. Some of my favorites include:

  1. Insulated stainless steel bottles that keep drinks cold for hours
  2. Glass bottles with silicone sleeves for a stylish, shatter-resistant choice
  3. Collapsible silicone bottles that are easy to pack

Beyond water bottles, there are plenty of other ways to promote sustainable hydration.

Consider branded reusable straws made from glass, stainless steel, or bamboo.

You could even pair them with a portable utensil set for an eco-friendly dining kit.

For a fun twist on the classic company mug, look for options made from recycled coffee grounds or plant-based materials.

These cutting-edge materials are kinder to the planet and sure to spark conversation.


Easy starting packages • Advanced options • Proven results

Earth-Friendly Totes & Bags

A beige tote bag with colorful abstract patterns in red, green, and blue at the bottom and a single brown handle.

Tote bags are another staple of corporate gifting.

But not all totes are created equal when it comes to sustainability.

Cheaply made bags break down quickly, leading to more waste.

Instead, invest in high-quality, eco-conscious tote bags your recipients will proudly use for years.

Organic cotton is popular, but you can also find bags made from innovative materials like recycled plastic bottles or even algae.

For extra durability, consider waxed canvas or hemp totes.

These tough materials hold up to heavy use and develop a cool, worn-in look over time.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your designs.

A local artist could help create a one-of-a-kind print that shows off your brand’s personality.

Or go for a classic minimalist look with a sleek embroidered logo.

Totes are just the beginning when it comes to eco-friendly carrying solutions.

Drawstring backpacks made from recycled polyester or organic cotton make great gym bags or light daypacks.

For smaller items, try a branded pouch made from sustainable felt or recycled neoprene.

And don’t forget about conference lanyards.

It may seem like a small detail, but choosing a lanyard made from recycled PET or bamboo fiber can make a big difference across hundreds or thousands of attendees.

As a bonus, a well-designed, eco-friendly lanyard is more likely to be worn again after the event.

Conscious Desk Accessories

An open spiral-bound notebook with lined and blank pages lies on a wooden surface. Two pencils, one green and one orange, are placed beside it along with some eucalyptus leaves.

Even with more people working remotely these days, desk swag still has its place.

The key is picking items that are both useful and sustainable.

One of my go-to recommendations is a sleek, refillable bamboo ballpoint pen.

Unlike cheap plastic pens that end up in the trash, these are built to last.

Pair it with a notebook made from recycled paper or sustainable bamboo for a winning combo.

For a bigger gift, consider a bamboo wireless charging pad or speaker.

These tech accessories are stylish and functional, plus they showcase your brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

No desk is complete without some greenery.

Succulent planters made from reclaimed wood or recycled glass make a thoughtful and eco-friendly addition to any workspace.

For a fun twist, you could include a packet of organic herb seeds for growing a desktop garden.

Sustainable Apparel & Accessories

A close-up image of a brown textured baseball cap with a curved visor, set against a plain white background.

From t-shirts to hats to scarves, branded clothing is a tried-and-true promotional product.

But the fashion industry has a big environmental impact, so it’s important to choose eco-conscious options.

One of the most important things to consider is the material.

Regular cotton often uses harmful pesticides and too much water to grow.

Instead, look for organic cotton, bamboo, or Tencel lyocell, which are much gentler on the planet.

For a more technical option, recycled polyester is great.

It’s made from old plastic bottles, keeping waste out of landfills.

It also wicks moisture and dries quickly, perfect for activewear.

Beyond the material, pay attention to how things are made.

Look for brands that focus on sustainable production, fair labor, and responsible waste management.

Certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and Bluesign can help verify a company’s commitment to sustainability.

When it comes to designs, consider a vintage or retro look.

It’s on-trend and fits with the idea of timeless, long-lasting fashion.

A classic embroidered logo on a hemp baseball cap or organic cotton canvas jacket will never go out of style.

Don’t forget about accessories.

Branded sunglasses made from recycled skateboard decks or plant-based materials make a bold statement.

A sleek, sustainable watch made from recycled ocean plastic is both functional and conversation-starting.


Get “The Event Success Playbook”

Our proven event planning playbook has step-by-step strategies to increase qualified leads 25%+, grow revenue, and boost engagement.

A person holding a tablet.
A yellow and black square on a black background.
An orange and black arrow with a black background.

Virtual Swag: Eco-Friendly Digital Gifts

What could be more eco-friendly than virtual swag?

Virtual swag bags offer a sustainable alternative to physical items.

It’s perfect for remote events and global teams, too.

Here are some creative ideas to try:

  1. Green E-Gift Cards: Partner with eco-friendly companies. For every $10 spent, a tree gets planted.
  2. Sustainable Apps: Offer subscriptions to apps that promote green living, like meal planners to reduce food waste.
  3. Online Experiences: Provide virtual cooking classes using local ingredients or workshops on creating a zero-waste home.
  4. Custom Digital Assets: Design branded wallpapers or video call backgrounds with eco-friendly themes.
  5. E-Books: Create guides on reducing energy use or cookbooks with plant-based recipes.
  6. Charitable Donations: Let recipients choose an environmental charity for you to support in their name.
  7. Virtual Adoptions: Sponsor a virtual plant or animal through conservation organizations.
  8. Eco-Emoji Packs: Design custom, eco-themed emojis for messaging apps.

Virtual swag is cost-effective, easy to distribute, and provides engagement data.

The key is making it useful and enjoyable while reinforcing your brand’s commitment to sustainability.

Making a Lasting Impression

Choosing eco-friendly promotional products is about more than just picking sustainable materials.

It’s a chance to start a conversation about your brand’s values and commitment to positive change.

When you give out a piece of branded merchandise, you’re inviting the recipient to become part of your story.

And when that story includes dedication to environmental responsibility, it can really set you apart.

The impact goes beyond that initial moment.

Every time someone uses one of your eco-friendly promotional products, they're reminded of your brand and your shared values.

They become a walking ambassador for your message of sustainability.

The best eco-friendly promotional products are those that fit your brand’s unique identity and goals.

Whether you go for classic favorites like reusable bags and bottles or more unusual choices like plantable seed paper or solar-powered chargers, the key is to pick items that feel authentic and meaningful.

Partner with We & Goliath for Sustainable Success

At We & Goliath, we specialize in helping brands tell their stories through unforgettable live, virtual, and hybrid experiences.

Whether you’re planning a product launch, a team-building retreat, or an industry conference, we have the expertise to make your vision a reality.

Ready to take your event to the next level?

We’re here to help.

Let’s work together to create an event that wow your guests and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

A yellow and blue logo on a dark background.
We & Goliath

We & Goliath is an award-winning, top 100 worldwide event agency known for increasing conference attendance by 7X and profits by 3X through beautifully designed virtual, hybrid, and in-person events. Since 1999, their team of innovative strategists and creative designers has worked with global enterprises, SMBs, non-profits, and other organizations to engage audiences and exceed expectations.

A black background with a red, yellow, and blue square.
Shopping Basket
A woman sitting on the floor with a laptop.

We create iconic events that generate buzz.

Let us help you smash your engagement goals and set attendance records.

Free for a Limited Time ($500 Value)