Top Sustainable Promo Products for Custom Printing

Finding sustainable promotional products that deliver genuine environmental benefits—not just green marketing—requires cutting through an overwhelming field of options. Whether you're planning event giveaways, building employee recognition programs, or creating branded merchandise that aligns with organizational values, the sustainable product landscape can present both opportunity and uncertainty.

This guide provides specific recommendations across key promotional categories, from everyday drinkware to premium corporate gifts. You'll find technical specifications, verified sustainability credentials, realistic pricing, and practical advice on matching products to different marketing objectives. No vague environmental claims or surface-level comparisons—just proven products that work, backed by the details you need to make informed purchasing decisions that support both your brand and the planet.

Why Sustainable Products Make Business Sense Right Now

You're not alone in prioritizing sustainability—the market has fundamentally shifted. The sustainable products sector hit $382.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $802.6 billion by 2035, reflecting 7.7% annual growth. Nearly three-quarters of U.S. consumers now pay more for sustainable products, with buyers willing to spend an average of 9.7% extra for responsibly produced goods—even amid inflation pressures. Globally, over 72% of consumers say they'd pay more for products with sustainability credentials, and sales of sustainability-marketed items are growing two to three times faster than conventional alternatives.

The business case is equally compelling. Products marketed as sustainable now capture 17–24% of overall market share (https://www.arbor.eco/blog/sustainability-statistics) and delivered more than half of all market growth over the past five years. Eighty-five percent of consumers report feeling better about buying sustainably produced items, and more than half say a company's environmental responsibility influences their purchase decisions. Organizations leading with transparent, credible sustainability claims build stronger customer loyalty, open new markets, and reduce long-term supply chain and reputational risks. Choosing sustainable custom apparel and promotional products isn't just responsible—it's strategic.

Our Top Picks: Custom Printed Promotional Products

We've organized this by product category, with two options at different price points for each. These picks reflect what actually works—products our customers reorder, brands with verifiable sustainability programs, and items our team trusts based on years of handling custom orders. You'll get the technical specs, sustainability credentials, and practical guidance on when each makes sense for your project.

Sustainable Drinkware

Sigrid 16 oz. ECO Travel Mug With Recycled Plastic (Style SM-6941)

The Sigrid ECO Travel Mug combines practicality with sustainability through recycled polypropylene (RPP) construction for the liner, lid, and handle, paired with a stainless steel outer wall for durability. The spill-resistant press-on lid with sliding closure and modern silhouette fit most standard cup holders, making this functional for daily commutes, outdoor activities, or office use. Offered in black with moderate pricing that makes it accessible for employee swag bags or event giveaways, this mug directly reduces single-use plastic consumption—the primary sustainability benefit. Through the EcoSmart® initiative partnered with 1% For The Planet, 1% of sales support environmental nonprofits. Hand washing recommended for longevity.

Best for: Employee swag bags, event giveaways, or promotion kits where repeat visibility matters. The clean surface takes custom logos well for daily brand exposure. Pair with sustainability messaging or reminder cards about reusable benefits to reinforce the environmental impact story. The recycled plastic liner gives organizations a visible, affordable way to demonstrate waste reduction commitment without premium pricing.

Explorer Threadless Recycled Stainless Bottle 25oz (Style: 1602-22)

Combining sleek, contemporary styling with robust sustainability, the Explorer Threadless Recycled Stainless Bottle stands out for its one-touch suction push-button lid and leakproof lock, eliminating the hassle of unscrewing. Crafted from 91% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel, this 25oz bottle features double-wall vacuum insulation with copper lining to keep beverages cold for up to 48 hours or hot for 12. Its powder-coated exterior resists condensation, and the wide opening is ideal for both pouring and easy access for ice. The bottle is available in black or white and features a comfortable soft-touch loop for grab-and-go use, all while offering a moderate price point for accessible, premium-grade, sustainable drinkware.

Best for: An eco-friendly giveaway or retail item for wellness programs, athletic events, and outdoor campaigns where sustainable messaging is central. Its versatile size fits most car cup holders and is well-suited for daily commuters, travelers, and environmentally conscious employees who appreciate both convenience and environmental stewardship.

Stanley Quencher 40 oz. H2.O FlowState Tumbler (Style 1603-01)

The Stanley Quencher operates at premium level with 90% recycled stainless steel construction that's naturally BPA-free for safe daily use. Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 11 hours (or iced for two days) and hot for seven hours, while the rotating FlowState™ lid allows multiple drink positions and prevents spills. The ergonomic handle, comfort-grip inserts, and narrow base fit most auto cup holders despite the 40 oz. capacity. Up to ten color options support diverse branding applications. Stanley backs this with their "Built for Life™" warranty and genuine sustainability commitment—the company contributes over 1% of net income to nature conservation and outdoor access causes, going beyond minimum industry standards.

Best for: Branded event premiums, high-value corporate gifts, or wellness-focused employee initiatives where quality justifies investment. The substantial surface area handles laser engraving or color printing for lasting brand presence. Market the recycled stainless steel story prominently in sustainability campaigns—it's a standout product for organizations championing single-use bottle reduction with measurable impact. The combination of genuine performance, recognizable brand, and verifiable sustainability credentials makes this effective for premium positioning.

Explore our complete selection of Sustainable Drinkware.

Sustainable Bags

Medium Recycled Cotton Colorblock Convention Tote (Style 7901-08)

The 7901-08 tote delivers impressive sustainability credentials at around $3.00 in bulk, constructed from 70–80% recycled cotton and 20–30% recycled PET polyester sourced from pre-consumer textile and plastic waste during factory fabric cutting. The 16.5" × 15" open compartment provides practical capacity for tradeshows, farmers markets, or daily errands, while the colorblock design adds visual interest that helps branding stand out. Each tote diverts textile and plastic waste from landfills—the core environmental benefit—making single-use bags unnecessary for repeat use. Through EcoSmart® partnership with 1% For The Planet, 1% of sales support environmental nonprofits, adding charitable impact to the waste reduction story.

Best for: Conferences, events, or brand giveaways where volume matters and sustainability messaging strengthens brand perception. The generous customization area handles large logos or bold artwork effectively—select contrasting print colors for maximum visibility. Highlight the recycled credentials in campaign messaging or hang tags to help customers understand the environmental impact. This works particularly well for organizations wanting to demonstrate waste reduction commitment at scale without significant budget investment.

Repose 5oz. Recycled Cotton Drawstring Bag (Style: 3005-75)

The Repose drawstring bag exemplifies everyday eco-functionality with its construction from recycled pre-consumer cotton, offering both environmental benefit and lightweight practicality. It features a spacious main compartment, a convenient front slip pocket, and an internal pocket specifically designed to keep a water bottle upright while carrying. With dual options for 5.5" drop handles or comfortable shoulder straps, this bag is easy to carry and suited for multiple settings. Notably, a portion of each sale supports environmental nonprofits through the 1% For The Planet partnership, reinforcing the bag’s genuine sustainability credentials.

Best for: Branded event swag, sustainable recruiting kits, and casual promotional giveaways. Its well-thought-out pockets make it ideal for fitness classes, company wellness programs, and campus events, accommodating on-the-go essentials like shoes, sportswear, or a refillable bottle.

Field & Co. Fireside Eco Duffel (Style 7951-97)

The Fireside Eco Duffel operates at premium level—typically $48–$60 per bag—with rugged construction from recycled polyester sourced primarily from water bottles, plus a tarpaulin-coated bottom for durability against rough surfaces. Measuring approximately 20" × 11.5" × 10.5", the design includes a spacious interior, zippered shoe compartment, adjustable sherpa-padded strap, double exterior lash tabs, custom plaid-print lining, and organizational panel for essentials. Available in versatile charcoal gray, this duffel delivers lasting value through quality construction and thoughtful features that justify the investment.

Best for: Travel teams, adventure retreats, corporate gifting, or premium employee rewards where sustainability story and elevated design reinforce brand positioning. The substantial exterior surface handles embroidery or logo patches effectively. Offer this as featured rewards for employee sustainability initiatives or special client thank-you tied to eco-friendly programs—the recycled materials story combined with genuine utility creates memorable brand moments that outlast typical promotional items.

View our full range of Eco-friendly Bags.

Sustainable Office Supplies

FSC Recycled Spiral Notebook With RPET Pen (Style SM-5268)

This 5.5" × 7" notebook set delivers practical sustainability at $3–$4 per piece in bulk, featuring a durable hard cover made from 100% recycled polypropylene, 70 sheets of white lined FSC-certified paper, and sturdy black metal wire binding. The included pen uses a barrel manufactured entirely from recycled PET plastic, offering smooth black ink secured by an elastic loop for convenient carry. Standard color options available for the notebook cover provide basic branding flexibility. Through EcoSmart® partnership with 1% For The Planet, 1% of sales support environmental nonprofits. FSC certification means every sheet sources from responsibly managed forests with third-party verification, not vague sustainability claims.

Best for: Onboarding packages, visitor swag bags, green office initiatives, or conference handouts where repeated daily use extends brand visibility. The cover and pages both handle logo customization well. Consider pairing with educational messaging about responsible paper use or recycling programs to reinforce organizational environmental commitment beyond the product itself. This works particularly well for training sessions, brainstorm meetings, or journaling programs where the sustainability credentials align naturally with usage context.

Recycled Cotton Bound JournalBook® (Style: 2800-94)

With a hard cover crafted from recycled cotton and 80 sheets of FSC® Mix cream-lined paper, the 5.5" x 8.5" Recycled Cotton Bound JournalBook® brings sustainable innovation to daily notetaking. The journal’s thoughtful design includes a natural color elastic closure, pen loop, ribbon page marker, and a back document pocket for extra organization. Its environmental profile is further strengthened by participation in 1% For The Planet, ensuring that a percentage of every sale supports environmental nonprofits. This moderate-priced journal is both a functional and imaginative choice for eco-conscious branding.

Best for: Onboarding kits, company retreats, training events, and educational programs. Their practical features and professional appearance make them an excellent choice for capturing meeting notes, brainstorming sessions, or journaling, while helping organizations visibly demonstrate their sustainability efforts.

Hyde Recycled Brass Ballpoint Gel Pen (Style 1066-63)

The Hyde pen operates at premium level—$8–$18 per pen—with recycled brass barrel construction, chrome accents, smooth black gel ink (0.5mm tip), and approximately 400 meters of writing length. The cap-off design delivers executive-level presentations suitable for client gifts, employee recognition, or branded handouts where quality matters. The recycled brass construction provides tangible weight and substance that distinguishes this from typical promotional pens. As with other EcoSmart® products, 1% of sales channel to environmental nonprofits through 1% For The Planet partnership, adding charitable impact to the material story.

Best for: Client gifts, recognition programs, upscale in-office branding, or desk accessories where presentation reinforces organizational values. The substantial barrel handles engraving or imprinting effectively for lasting brand presence. This works well in contexts where sustainability credentials need to match executive positioning—the combination of recycled material, writing comfort, and premium appearance tells a coherent story for organizations wanting visible environmental leadership without compromising professional image.

Browse our full catalog of Sustainable Office Supplies.

Sustainable Gifts

100% Recycled PET Fleece Blanket (Style SM-8798)

This fleece blanket repurposes approximately 16 plastic bottles per unit, constructed entirely from 150gsm recycled PET polyester for soft, lightweight comfort. Four versatile colors support personal or branded gifting applications, and the surface accepts logos printed in up to eight colors for bold custom artwork. Pricing starts around $6.50 for bulk orders, making this an affordable option for client gifts, team recognition, or event swag where reusable warmth beats disposable alternatives. Through EcoSmart® and 1% For The Planet, 1% of sales support environmental charities, adding charitable impact to the plastic waste diversion story.

Best for: Seasonal employee recognition, home comfort gifts, or tradeshow thank-yous where tangible utility extends brand presence beyond the event. The recycled PET story is concrete and understandable—16 bottles diverted from landfills per blanket gives recipients a specific environmental impact to appreciate. Pair with thank-you cards that explain the recycled content to reinforce sustainability messaging. This works particularly well for cooler-weather campaigns or wellness initiatives where comfort aligns naturally with organizational values.

NBN Trailhead Recycled Fanny Pack (Style: 3750-57)

Designed for hands-free convenience and everyday style, the NBN Trailhead Recycled Fanny Pack is made from recycled materials and offers a zippered main compartment with an internal zippered pocket for efficient storage. The versatile, adjustable waist belt extends up to 45" for a customizable fit, and interchangeable zipper pulls let users personalize their pack. At a moderate price, this fanny pack demonstrates a practical, on-trend approach to sustainability by combining functionality, comfort, and recycled content.

Best for: Employee incentives, festivals, and wellness or outdoor campaigns that require visible utility and sustainability messaging. Their convenient size accommodates everyday essentials—phones, keys, or snacks—making them a strong option for urban commuters, hikers, cyclists, and event staff alike.

NBN Recycled Outdoor 15 Can Cooler (Style 3850-25)

The NBN cooler operates at $14–$19 per unit with water-resistant 600D recycled ripstop fabric construction and full insulation to handle up to 15 cans. Features include a large zippered opening for easy access, removable shoulder strap, side pocket for extras, and sleek black color for universal appeal. The recycled ripstop fabric delivers genuine durability for outdoor use while diverting plastic waste from production. Through EcoSmart® and 1% For The Planet, 1% of sales channel to sustainability initiatives, reinforcing the environmental impact story beyond the product's material composition.

Best for: Holiday gifts, outdoor event rewards, or client thank-yous where utility justifies mid-tier investment. The exterior surface handles heat transfer or embroidery for visible logo impact that lasts through regular outdoor use. Market the recycled content and charitable donation in gift messaging to strengthen recipient appreciation—the combination of practical function and verifiable sustainability credentials works well for organizations wanting to demonstrate environmental commitment through thoughtful, usable gifts rather than throwaway promotional items.

Discover more Sustainable Gifts in our catalog.

Selecting Sustainable Materials for Promotional Products

Different promotional product categories demand different sustainable material approaches. Recycled PET (rPET) dominates drinkware, bags, and blankets—each water bottle or tote typically repurposes 8-20 plastic bottles, creating a concrete waste diversion story that resonates with recipients. For notebooks and office supplies, FSC-certified paper guarantees responsible forestry with third-party verification, while recycled polypropylene handles durable goods like pen barrels and mug components effectively. Metal products benefit from recycled stainless steel or brass, reducing mining impact while delivering premium weight and perceived value.

Material choice affects both environmental credentials and decoration methods. Recycled polyester fabrics accept heat transfer and screen printing reliably, FSC paper handles standard printing and embossing, and recycled metals work well with laser engraving or etching for lasting brand presence. Consider the product's intended use and lifespan—reusable drinkware and bags justify recycled content investment through repeated use, while single-event items should prioritize either recyclability or meaningful impact per unit.

For comprehensive guidance on material properties, certifications, and how different sustainable materials perform across promotional product categories, see our Complete Guide to Sustainable Materials in Custom Apparel and Promotional Products.

Creating Effective Sustainable Promotional Product Messaging

Promotional products need sustainability messaging that recipients immediately understand and remember. Lead with tangible impact: "Made from 16 recycled plastic bottles" or "FSC-certified paper from responsibly managed forests" gives people specific environmental context rather than vague claims. The physical nature of promotional products makes this concrete storytelling particularly effective—recipients hold the diverted plastic bottles, use the recycled materials, and experience the environmental benefit directly through repeated use.

Connect sustainable promotional products to your broader organizational values naturally. If you're marketing eco-conscious services or building brand identity around responsibility, your promotional products should reinforce that story through material choices and messaging. Include brief sustainability information on packaging, hang tags, or accompanying materials so recipients understand the environmental commitment behind their gift. The most effective sustainable promotional campaigns treat material choices as natural extensions of brand values rather than separate "green" initiatives.

For detailed strategies on crafting credible sustainability messaging, positioning environmental initiatives authentically in promotional campaigns, and avoiding greenwashing pitfalls, see our guide on How to Create Sustainable Brand Messaging Through Custom Apparel.

This collection represents proven promotional products that balance environmental responsibility with practical marketing needs. Beyond these specific recommendations, our sustainable inventory includes specialized items across every promotional category—tech accessories, wellness products, outdoor gear, and corporate gifts that meet rigorous eco-standards without the greenwashing.

Your promotional products should reinforce brand identity, not contradict it. We help organizations match sustainable materials to their specific marketing objectives, whether that means cost-effective giveaways for large events or premium gifts that warrant higher investment. Our team has seen which products generate genuine enthusiasm from recipients, which materials hold up through daily use, and which sustainability stories resonate most effectively with different audiences. That real-world knowledge helps you avoid expensive mistakes and choose promotional items people actually keep and use.

Ready to develop your sustainable promotional program? Browse our complete eco-friendly product line or contact us to discuss your campaign goals, budget parameters, and timeline. We'll recommend products that deliver both marketing impact and environmental benefit—no compromises required.