Valentine’s Day is devoted to love for most of us, but Valentine’s Day is bad news for the environment. The billions of cards that are sent contribute to deforestation, and most end up in landfills. Did you know that chocolate and flower-growing producers are among the biggest users of pesticides? Valentine's Day in a sustainable way or waste it? It's your choice!
Valentine’s Day: Reduce Your Impact
Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce Valentine’s Day's environmental impact without losing the romance and while still having a memorable day. Here are a few ways to make this Valentine’s Day a sustainable holiday to remember.
Valentine's Day Cards
Valentine’s cards are a great and easy way to express your feelings to your partner in writing. If you’re a fan of paper cards, then embrace your creativity and create your own card out of reclaimed paper this year. If you’re not a crafty person, search out a local artist who makes their own cards from recycled materials. There are also commercial cards made from recycled materials, so you have no excuse not to buy an environmentally responsible one. Alternately, this year, use technology to show your partner how much they mean to you. There are many free e-card sites available, so search for the one you like and send it to your sweetie.
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Valentine's Flowers Last Only For A Week
Nothing tells your partner that you’re their Valentine like a bouquet. Unfortunately, bouquets may last only a week or so. Why not give your partner something that will last longer, like a nice herb plant? If you enjoy cooking together, adding home-grown herbs to your meals will make them taste that much better! If you want to stay with the traditional flower route, visit your local farmers' market and see what flowers are in season. You may get a better deal than in flower shops, and you’ll be supporting a local grower.
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Chocolate And Wine As Valentine's Gift
Most people like to enjoy a nice bottle of wine or champagne to create a romantic evening. Research the type of wine you like, and see if the wine is made from organic grapes or grown sustainably. What materials are they using for the cork – sustainable material or the evil plastic tops? Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without the classic box of chocolates. Buy fair-trade chocolate this year. You’ll be expressing your love via the world’s best product and helping chocolate pickers receive the best price available for their cocoa beans. Another idea when buying chocolate is to purchase dark or cacao chocolate for its health benefits. These types of chocolate can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Romantic Getaway In An Eco-Environmental Environment
Taking off for a romantic weekend getaway is a great way to celebrate and have a weekend of love. There are many small inns and bed and breakfasts that offer eco-friendly products/services and materials. Staying at an inn is a good alternative to staying at a large hotel because larger hotels have a higher carbon footprint. You have the added benefit of enjoying a more intimate setting while at the same time helping a local business. If you want to have a true eco-friendly Valentine’s Day, then get outside and enjoy nature. Go skating, skiing, snow-shoeing, or any winter activity that gets you outside to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise. Weather permitting, pack a picnic, and enjoy a meal outdoors. Enjoying Mother Nature's beauty and reconnecting with nature is a great way to show your love for the environment.
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Dining At Valentines' Day
If you’re a chef, consider making your partner a special romantic meal this year using organic food ingredients. Head down to your local farmers market and see what foods are in season and available – some great winter foods include lettuce, broccoli, carrots, and much more. You have the added benefit of controlling what goes into your meal. If you opt for eating in a restaurant, inquire if the restaurant uses organic products in preparing the meal or visit an organic restaurant.
Gifts For Valentine
This year, don’t buy the traditional teddy bear. Be a little more creative and search out some eco-friendly gifts. If you’re interested in jewelry, then select diamond rings/earrings/bracelets made using fairly traded diamonds. Another jewelry suggestion is made from recycled items or a beautiful vintage piece to complement your partner’s style. The best Valentine’s gift you can give doesn’t require you to generate any waste; tell your partner three special words – 'I love you.'
After all, Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love — so show your partner you care by telling them how you feel.
Cover photo by Brent Hofacker
Source Greener Ideal: 6 Ways to Have a Sustainable Valentine’s Day
Before you go!
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