Purpose-driven Insights: Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day

Each year, individuals search for significant ways to commemorate International Women’s Day, a moment to consider advancements and promote ongoing empowerment. But it matters how we celebrate. Making more environmentally friendly decisions can have a big influence in a society where environmental issues are becoming more pressing. Research demonstrates that sustainable practices, such as cutting waste and assisting moral companies, not only help the environment but also foster social transformation. This compilation of ideas examines how women can honor their legacy and the environment while celebrating their accomplishments, having an impact that lasts beyond the actual day.

Opt for Sustainable Plant-Based Gifts

For International Women’s Day, I wanted to do something special to honor the women in my life, but I also didn’t want to contribute to unnecessary waste. I found that one of the easiest eco-friendly choices was opting for plant-based, sustainable gifts.

Last year, instead of giving out traditional flowers or store-bought gifts that often end up in the trash, I decided to send out small potted plants to a few amazing women in my circle. It was a simple, thoughtful gesture, and the best part was that the plants could live on for months or even years, instead of being a one-time-use item.

I chose succulents because they’re low-maintenance and eco-friendly. I even found a local nursery that wrapped them in recycled materials, keeping it all sustainable. The response was amazing—everyone loved the idea, and I could tell the plants really meant something more lasting than a typical gift.

So, my eco-friendly tip for International Women’s Day is to think about gifts that give back to the earth—whether it’s plants, reusable products, or experiences that don’t create waste. It’s a win-win for both the women you’re celebrating and the planet!

Takarudana Mapendembe, Founder, Best Calculators

Switch to Eco-Friendly Menstrual Products

One meaningful way to celebrate International Women’s Day sustainably is by rethinking menstrual product choices. Traditional pads and tampons contribute to massive plastic waste and often contain chemicals like dioxins and endocrine disruptors, which can have long-term effects on hormonal health. 

As a menstrual health activist developing an app for women’s reproductive and mental health, I have spoken to countless women who struggle with their periods. I also talked to women’s health experts including gynecologists and reproductive epidemiologists. My research made me realize that switching to eco-friendly options—such as menstrual cups made with medical grade silicone, reusable cloth pads, and eco-friendly pads—not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes safer, healthier periods and fertility. 

Celebrating women should also mean advocating for our health and the health of the planet!

Ananya Grover, Founder, HealCycle

Support Women Artisans with Sustainable Gifts

For International Women’s Day, we have launched a “Women Artisans Collection” featuring handcrafted, reusable gift sets made by women-led cooperatives. Each set included naturally dyed silk scarves and bamboo jewelry boxes, packaged in seed-embedded boxes that grow into wildflowers when planted. 

The initiative created a powerful ripple effect. Our tracking showed that 84% of gift recipients became regular customers of sustainable products, drawn in by the dual impact of supporting women artisans while choosing earth-friendly items. The seed-paper packaging proved especially engaging, with 91% of customers sharing their growing progress on social media. 

Most significantly, the collection sparked lasting change in shopping habits. Our data revealed that 77% of first-time buyers through this campaign switched to eco-friendly gifting permanently. The success rate in converting one-time buyers into regular sustainable shoppers reached 89%, showing how combining social purpose with environmental consciousness resonates deeply with consumers. This proven approach transformed occasional buyers into committed advocates for sustainable living.

Swayam Doshi, Founder, Suspire

Plant Trees or Donate to Reforestation

A meaningful eco-friendly choice for International Women’s Day is to plant a tree or donate to a reforestation project in honor of the women who inspire you.

Why It’s Powerful:

• Trees absorb CO2, combat deforestation, and support biodiversity.
  
• Many reforestation projects empower women in local communities by providing jobs in conservation and sustainable agriculture.
  
• Instead of giving wasteful, short-lived gifts, this action creates a lasting impact for future generations.

How to Do It:

• Plant a tree yourself in a garden, park, or community space.
  
• Donate to organizations like One Tree Planted or Eden Reforestation Projects, which help fund reforestation efforts led by women in developing regions.
  
• Gift a tree dedication in a loved one’s name as a symbolic and sustainable tribute.

This choice celebrates women while giving back to the planet, making it a perfect way to honor growth, resilience, and sustainability on International Women’s Day.

Tansha Casarez, Founder & Lead Visionary, HER BALANCED WORLD

Support Women-Owned Eco-Friendly Businesses

One of the best ways to celebrate International Women’s Day sustainably is to support women-owned eco-friendly businesses. Whether it’s grabbing a handmade candle from a female artisan, choosing ethical fashion, or buying from a zero-waste beauty brand, your purchase makes a real impact. You’re not just honoring women, you’re also backing businesses that care about the planet.

Another fun idea is to host a zero-waste get-together. Skip the plastic decorations and go for fresh flowers or DIY crafts. Use real plates instead of disposables, and send digital invites instead of paper. You could even ask guests to donate to a women-led environmental nonprofit. It’s a simple way to turn a celebration into something meaningful.

Chris Burdick, Co-Founder, Chief Product Officer, FairKiwi

Choose Reusable Safety Razors

One simple yet meaningful way to celebrate International Women’s Day is by making more sustainable self-care choices. A small but powerful swap gaining momentum is the move away from disposable plastic razors. Every year, over 2 billion plastic razors are thrown away, most of which are impossible to recycle, contributing to growing landfill waste.

We’ve seen over 15,000 women switch to reusable safety razors, not just for the environmental benefits but also for a better shaving experience. Unlike disposable razors that create unnecessary waste, a well-made safety razor lasts a lifetime, with only the blades needing replacement and those can be recycled.

International Women’s Day is about empowerment and progress, and sustainable choices are part of that bigger picture. Whether it’s supporting ethical brands, reducing waste in daily routines, or advocating for a healthier planet, these small changes add up. Choosing reusable over disposable is just one way to make a positive impact, not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

Blayne Shaw, Founder, Lane44

Give Seasonal, Locally Grown Flowers

On International Women’s Day, I recommend using flowers instead of generic, mass-produced gifts. Here’s why: these pre-packaged items usually result in increased plastic waste and carbon emissions. In stark contrast, natural flowers break down easily after their life cycle, which makes them a much gentler choice for our planet.

When you pick up a bouquet from your local florist, you’re not just brightening someone’s day—you’re also supporting sustainable agriculture. Plus, you reduce those harmful emissions associated with shipping goods over long distances. It just makes sense to choose seasonal, locally grown blooms. They’re not only fresher and more eco-friendly.

Thinking of going even greener? Try flower arrangements in recyclable or compostable wrappings. Or better yet, use potted plants. They last longer and even help purify your air—talk about success!

Flowers aren’t just pretty to look at; they also carry important meaning. Take the yellow mimosa, the emblem of International Women’s Day, which represents strength. And don’t forget roses, lilies, and tulips—top picks for their sustainability and beauty.

Choosing flowers is my simple, effective way to reduce waste and show my care for the environment. It’s how I like to honor this special day, which makes a thoughtful, lasting change.

Cary Engle, Owner, Englewood Florist

Choose Eco-Friendly and Ethical Gifts

Eco-friendly gifting has the ability to reflect the spirit of Women’s Day by encouraging conscious consumerism and a commitment to a better future for all. I think in commemoration of the occasion, it would be prudent to support local or ethical brands that prioritize fair trade and eco-conscious production. Consider digital or experience-based gifts, like e-gift cards or wellness subscriptions, to reduce waste and use minimal, recyclable packaging to ensure a greener gifting approach and mindful professional gratitude—be it for employees, partners, prospective clients, customers or the like.

Dmitriy Peregudov, CEO & Founder, Giftsenda

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Welcome to Store with a Heart’s HeartBeat’s blog series, Purpose-Driven Insights, which unites experts and changemakers to discuss what it really means to make a difference. This series offers readers practical advice and novel viewpoints by showcasing insights from leaders in charity, sustainability, mental health, social entrepreneurship, and other fields through insightful round-ups and interviews.

Purpose-Driven Insights offers the insight and motivation required to transform your goals into significant action, whether your goal is to lead with compassion, improve your community, or support a cause that is dear to your heart. Come explore organizational strategies, individual experiences, expert insights, and industry practices that enable us all to make a positive impact on a more compassionate and interconnected society.

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