One of the easiest and most effective ways to advertise is by using promotional products. In fact, according to a 2008 survey done by the Advertising Specialties Institute (ASI) promotional products beat out all forms of TV, print and radio advertising as the most cost-effective advertising medium available. Here’s an eco-tip that will help your business, save you money, and save the planet: advertise with eco-friendly promotional items.

There are several varieties of eco-friendly promotional items available, and with the recent trend towards “going green” more options are being released everyday. Now it’s easier than ever to get a pen made from recycled material or a personalized tote bag made from organic cotton. Below are the top 5 best selling categories of eco-friendly promotional products:

1. Eco-Friendly Apparel

By choosing t-shirts made of organic cotton or having them screen printed with eco-friendly inks you are making a bold statement about the environment. And seeing as promotional apparel is usually considered the most valued type of promotional item, you’ll definitely get your branding seen.

2. Eco-Friendly Bags

Bags deliver over 1,038 impressions per month and are used more frequently than any other type of promotional item (source: ASI)

3. Eco-Friendly Pens

Pens, pencils, and other writing instruments are the most commonly owned promotional items. They’re also more affordable than most other types of promotional items.

4. Eco-Friendly Drinkware

Items like mugs and travel tumblers have always been popular in the promotional market. Now there are more sustainable options, like sport bottles made out of recycled material and BPA free water bottles.

5) Eco-Friendly Paper Products

Choosing items like recycled paper pads or eco-friendly notebooks will help the environment and help keep your branding and message in front of customers’ eyes.

In addition to choosing items that do not hurt the environment, you should look for companies that give back to the planet. For example, ordering eco-friendly promotional items from Motivators.com will result in a tree being planted through the American Forests Global ReLeaf Fund.