Valentine's Day is a special time to show your loved ones how much you care about them. However, it can also be a time when we consume a lot of unnecessary items and create a lot of waste. Here are some tips to help you have a sustainable Valentine's Day that is not only good for the environment, but for your wallet, too!

Make Your Own Gifts  

Instead of buying expensive gifts, try making something at home. This could be something as simple as a homemade card or a batch of cookies. Not only will your loved one appreciate the effort, but it will also save you money and reduce the amount of packaging waste you create.  

Buy Sustainable Gifts  

If you do decide to buy gifts, try to make them sustainable. Here are some examples:  

• A potted plant or a bouquet of flowers from a local florist who uses sustainable practices.
• A reusable water bottle or coffee mug made from stainless steel or glass.
• A set of cloth napkins or a beeswax wrap as an alternative to disposable products.
• A handmade piece of jewelry made from recycled materials.
• A subscription to a sustainable living magazine or a book on environmentalism.
• A gift certificate for a cooking class focused on using locally-sourced and organic ingredients.
• A basket filled with organic and locally sourced food for a romantic picnic or candlelit dinner.
• A set of candles made from soy or beeswax, instead of traditional paraffin wax.
• A membership to a local CSA (community-supported agriculture) program or a gift card to a farmer's market.
• A gift certificate for a guided hike or bike tour of a local nature preserve or park. 

Cook a Romantic Dinner at Home  

Instead of going out to eat, cook a romantic dinner at home. Not only will this save you money, but it will also reduce the amount of packaging waste and energy used in transportation. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your loved one and maybe try out a new recipe.  

Buy Flowers from a Local Florist 

Flowers are a popular gift for Valentine's Day, but many of them are imported from other countries and are not grown sustainably. Instead, make a bouquet with flowers from a local florist, or gift cuttings of your favorite plants! 

Give an Experience  

Instead of buying material gifts, give your loved one an experience. This could be a concert or theater tickets, a spa day, or even a weekend getaway. These types of gifts are not only more sustainable, but can help you create lasting memories. 

Use Eco-Friendly Products  

Valentine's Day is a time when we use a lot of disposable items like paper plates and napkins. Instead, use eco-friendly products like cloth napkins and reusable plates when you’re dining and wrap gifts in upcycled materials. 

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