Tips For An Eco-Friendly Valentine’s Day

There are lots of great ways to make special occasions more eco-friendly, including Valentine’s Day!  When shopping for gifts or planning a Valentine’s Day celebration, you can make lots of swaps to go a little greener this year.

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Choose sustainable decor

Opt for decorations made from natural, biodegradable, or recycled materials, such as a felt Valentine’s Day garland.

Avoid single-use plastic decorations and opt for reusable ones instead.

For candles, choose or make beeswax Valentine’s candles that use natural (not synthetic) fragrances. Note that beeswax candles are not vegan, so you may want to opt for soy Valentine’s candles instead, depending on your recipient.

Skip traditional flowers

Roses are often not very eco-friendly, as many are shipped from farms in other countries, such as Ecuador.

Opt for local flowers, or alternatives such as a houseplant, or a native plant that can be planted in a garden to enjoy for years to come. You can even make a bouquet of native seeds!

Give eco-friendly gifts

Consider giving gifts that are eco-friendly and sustainable.

Look for products made from recycled materials, organic and fair-trade items, or experiences instead of physical items.

You can also choose to give homemade gifts or support local artisans and small businesses.

You can also gift experiences, rather than material items.  This could be tickets to a show, a gift card to a local restaurant, etc.

If you buy jewelry, consider conflict-free diamonds or lab grown gems, such as a moissanite engagement ring.

If you gift chocolates, choose fair trade chocolates.

Shop local

Shopping locally supports the local economy, and purchasing locally made items lessens your carbon footprint.

Use recycled or reusable wrapping materials, such as maps, posters, or other paper.

Use recycled wrapping paper. You can also get creative using reusable materials, such as fabrics or bags.

Dine locally

If you go out to eat, support a local eatery versus a chain restaurant. You will be supporting your local economy and more locally sourced or made foods.