Spoil Your Sweetheart- Not The Planet!

Ok, we know… your saying to yourself, we just got done with Christmas, why on earth are you covering another holiday already?

Listen, we’re not a big fan of Valentine’s Day.  Just think, for a moment, about all the waste that’s produced for this holiday. The pink teddy bears, the endless greeting cards, the chocolate…and that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Who really needs all this waste? Not only is it expensive, but it’s just another way to encourage consumption and send more clutter into our homes.

Here are some fast facts from the U.S. Census Bureau:

•    Each year, 180 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged in the U.S. And, this number excludes cards exchanged in classrooms between children.

•    65% of American households typically participate in Valentine’s Day by exchanging cards, going out on a date, or buying a gift such as chocolates, a plush toy, flowers, or jewelry.

•    Over 36 million boxes of chocolate are sold each year.

So that being said, how can we celebrate Valentine’s Day and do something good for the planet at the same time? Why not turn this Hallmark holiday into an opportunity to support ethical and eco-conscious businesses with your dollars while simultaneously showing your special someone just how you feel?

We came up with a few ideas…

•    The good ‘ol e-card. Think twice before you waste money on a paper card. Or better yet, tell your special someone in person that you care. After all, why let a greeting card speak for your heart?

•    If you’re aiming to buy flowers this year, then find a local producer. Most flowers, especially roses, are shipped to the U.S. from South America, thousands of miles away. This wastes tons of gas and puts boatloads of Co2 into the air. Buying locally-grown flowers means that’s one less bouquet that has to be shipped that far.

•    Want to take your date to dinner? Then think about supporting an organic or vegan restaurant that uses locally-grown produce. Or,  better yet, think about whipping up an intimate meal at home.

•    Make a donation to an environmental organization on behalf of the person.

•    What would Valentine’s Day be without a box of chocolate? Well, if you want to have a green Valentine’s Day then go with organic chocolate. Most health food and organic markets carry organic chocolates. And if you can, go with a brand that’s organic and supports Fair Trade, like Sweet Earth Organic Chocolate. Or you can do even more good by purchasing Endangered Species Chocolate. 10% of each sale goes towards protecting animals and their habitat.

•    Want to buy a book or movie as a gift? Well, look for it used on Half.com or Ebay.com. Buying used is a great way to give life to old things. And, used things don’t consume new resources. I buy all my books and movies through Half.com, and I can say I’ve never had a problem with any of their sellers; they’re awesome.

•    Give natural perfumes and fragrances. Popular mainstream fragrances are chemical cocktails. By buying natural fragrances, you’ll be showing you not only care for the environment, but the person’s health.

Happy Valentines Day!