How to Have an Eco-Friendly Valentine’s Day

I am one of those people who has always had mixed feeling about Valentine’s Day. But over the years I realized I wasn’t super into it because I found it really tacky and consumeristic. Over time I’ve learned to appreciate it more by avoiding the Hallmark cards, stuffed animals, and plastic balloons that always end up in the landfill.

Here are a few ways to celebrate a little more sustainably:

 Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas:

1.     Buy local flowers (without plastic) that are in season from a local shop. Most of the roses that are sold for Valentine’s Day are imported from Ecuador, giving them a massive carbon footprint

2.     If you are wanting to give candy or chocolates, bring a jar with you to the bulk isle at your grocery store and get some treats without the packaging, or order from a local bulk store that will pack your good up in a reusable jar

3.     Bake something to gift in a tin, homemade cookies or bars are always great (also a great option for someone who has allergies and you can make them something special!)

4.     Make a card! I always love when people make their own cards, they have so much more character and you can really have some fun with it

Non-gift ideas:

 1.     Go out for a nice dinner, Valentine’s Day is a great way to support a restaurant you have been meaning to try (but make a reservation in advance!)

2.     Cook a nice meal together at home! This is a great affordable option that gets you doing something together

3.     Plan something outdoors, go for a nice walk, hike, or snowshoe depending on the weather in your area

4.     Rent a movie and have a low key night with zero-waste snacks

5.     Get together with friends of family so a nice catch up, another lovely way to spend the day with people you love

6.     Have a self-care day, with a nice glass of wine, a bath, or make your favourite food

 So, if you like celebrating Valentine’s day and are looking for a few ways to make it easier on the planet, or just generally try to avoid the tackiness associated with holidays, I hope this helps!

Let me know if you have any eco-friendly Valentine’s Day traditions!