Promotional Products for Parks & Rec Departments, Forest Preserve Districts and More

Municipal parks and recreation departments and county forest preserve districts’ missions are to give citizens access to open land, allowing people to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor recreational facilities. These municipal organizations are committed to sustainability but also must be mindful of budgets and make fiscally responsible purchasing decisions.

Choosing eco-friendly promotional products does not have to be any more expensive than typical outdoor promotional favorites like sunglasses and Frisbees.

Foam products like stress balls, “we’re number one” fingers and sun visors are often used for promotional giveaways for outdoor events, but products made from Styrofoam are extremely harmful to the environment. These products cannot be recycled and will end up in landfills. As an organization committed to the environment, walk the walk and choose promotional products in line with your mission. 

Reusable water bottles are always a popular promotional giveaway. Next time you are at a park or forest preserve, take a look in the garbage can. Recycling is not readily available at local parks so it’s almost guaranteed there will be plastic bottles in the trash that will head to a landfill. Giving away promotional reusable water bottles to promote outdoor focused organizations, encourages people to stay hydrated while enjoying the outdoors and will also help keep plastic bottles out of landfills.

For events or promotions where children are the target audience, FSC certified custom pencils are an ideal giveaway for forest preserve districts and park districts. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promotes responsible management of the world's forests. The FSC certification program supports biodiversity, protection and conservation of forests, ensures long term timber supplies, all while focusing on long term human benefits. Frisbees made from recycled material also show a commitment to the environment and encourage recipients to be active and enjoy the outdoors. If budgets allow, recycled promotional sunglasses are a popular item for all ages.

Nature focused groups can further show their commitment to the environment by recognizing employees, volunteers, sponsors and donors with sustainable awards. Eco Promotional Products offers a variety of eco-friendly awards made from recycled wood, FSC certified wood, sustainable bamboo and Beetle Kill Pine which are made from trees harvested off the floor of Northern Colorado's forest. Eventually awards and plaques will reach the end of their lifecycle through job changes, retirement, moves etc. Choosing recyclable or biodegradable awards will prevent them from ending up in landfills.