Green Your Valentine’s Day

It may be a contrived, made-up “hallmark holiday” – but who doesn’t like an excuse to give and get? This Valentine’s Day you can do that and show love to the planet at the same time. Here’s some tips to green your Valentine’s Day:

Cards: I loathe excess paper but I’m a sucker for cards. Fortunately, Hallmark and most major card companies now have lines of cards made with recycled paper. Just check out the back bottom of the card for the ‘made from recycled paper’ message. Not there? Don’t buy it. (These local businesses offer cards & products.) Of course, a great alternative is the home-made card route. Use some scrap paper, old wrapping paper or bows.  The recipient will appreciate your ingenuity and concern for the environment.

Flowers: Support local flower shops. You’ll cut down on emissions spent delivering flowers via mail. Plus, you can pick out a bouquet yourself in person and be sure it’s fresh upon arrival. (You can never predict flowers’ conditions when you order online.) Look for organic flowers, most shops offer a variety.  Also, you can ‘recycle’ your gift after V day – Local shops like Pennypack Flowers will reuse your vases after you’re finished enjoying the bouquet. (This local florist even donates unused flowers to brighten up local nursing homes!)

Cuisine: Choose a neighborhood restaurant if you’re dining out -less travel and again support for local businesses.  Or, consider cooking a special home-made Valentine’s dinner. Buy tasty, fresh ingredients from local farmer’s markets… If you’re a Philadelphia resident check out The Reading Terminal Market . They carry produce, seafood, poultry, flowers  – ingredients to make a delicious, romantic meal.

Chocolate: Chocolate is a Valentine’s Day staple. This year, buy organic & fair-trade.  Most grocers carry the Green & Black’s organic brand, or shop online for fair–trade organic chocolate from Sweet Earth Organic Chocolates.

And remember even if you aren’t relationship-bound doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat yourself – or your friends and family.

What are your Valentine’s Plans? Comment below and share some ways you plan to green this year’s February 14th.

Posted by Beth