Here's how you can celebrate love in an eco-friendly way this year
Love may be in the air, but it doesn't mean that we should be causing any more harm to the planet. As sweet as Valentine's Day is, it can have a very negative impact on Mother Nature, especially when you think about all of those glittery cards, plastic candy wrappers and single-use decorations, such as balloons and banners, that end up in landfill.
But we've got a list of wonderful eco-friendly gestures you can do for your special someone this year and beyond. From being more conscious about the chocolate you purchase to cooking a farm-to-table meal together, these ideas are sure to bring you closer, and make you feel good about putting the environment first this February 14th.
Browse through and have a great green Valentine’s Day!
1. Pick plants instead of bouquets
Photo by Stephanie Harvey on UnsplashAs gorgeous as flower bouquets can be, most of the time these fresh-cut blooms are treated with synthetic pesticides that end up polluting waterways, as well as insecticides, which not only kill harmful bugs but also key pollinator species that are a critical part of the ecosystem. Instead, get a beautiful house plant that will not only last longer, but will also increase oxygen levels in the air and improve mood. Plus, it’s something that they can take the time to nurture and care for which makes it all the more special for Valentine’s Day.
2. Support a local bakery
PexelsValentine’s Day and sweets go hand in hand, so why not make the effort to support a local bakery or home baker who uses fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged items that provide no information on how they were made and what is actually inside. Not to mention, these past few years have been tough for small businesses, so giving them your support will definitely be very meaningful.
3. Cook a farm-to-table meal together
PexelsIt doesn’t get any more romantic than cooking a meal together, especially when it’s an organic, made-from-scratch one. Plan a day when the two of you can head over to a neighbourhood farmers' market to pick up some fresh ingredients, then take your time to prepare and enjoy the food. Spending time in the kitchen is truly an intimate experience, and being able to support local farmers and artisans instead of big-box stores is just the cherry on top.
4. Donate to a cause together
Pexels
Instead of purchasing a gift or spending money on a lavish night out, why not make a donation towards a local animal shelter or an eco-friendly cause in your Valentine’s name? This is the perfect way to spread love across our community, and an extremely kind gesture that goes a long way.
5. Buy sustainable chocolate
Beyond GoodDitch the store-bought treats, and get some organic, Fair Trade Certified chocolates instead. Not only do they taste incredible, but you are helping support fair wages and safe working environments for farmers who grow cocoa in different parts of the world. Plus, many of these companies have made a commitment to give back to eco-friendly causes on both a local and international level; they use sustainable packaging; and they do not include any extra preservatives and additives in the chocolate, which means you get to indulge in 100 percent pure goodness.
- Endangered Species: This chocolate company donates 10 percent of its profits to organizations that support animal and habitat conservation.
- Beyond Good: Beyond Good empowers Madagascan and Ugandan cocoa farmers with fair wages and skills training.
- Theo Chocolate: Theo Chocolate is committed to sustainable production and partners with organizations such as the World Bicycle Relief and the Jane Goodall Institute to support social and ethical causes.
6. Cut down on waste when wrapping gifts
PexelsIf you have purchased a gift, do your part by skipping the wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, sticky tape and more. As pretty as it looks, you know most of it ends up in the trash afterwards, so take the time to get creative instead. Opt for recyclable alternatives such as brown paper bags, pages of old books, old fabrics you may have lying around, natural jute twine, or even putting your money towards a reusable bag which will come in handy when they go grocery shopping. Remember, it’s the effort and thought that counts.
7. Give cards that do good
EtsyGifting a personalized card is always a heartwarming gesture on Valentine’s Day, and what's even better is that there are a number of handmade, eco-friendly options available that do good for the planet, too. This includes cards that utilize natural ink and recyclable materials, and there are even plantable cards that can later bloom into flowers, plants and trees.