Every year Americans will spend over $19 billion on Valentines Day buying roses, cards, chocolate, and gifts. While these are great ways to express the love, it can also lead to a lot of waste and unsustainable consumption. Here's some tips for showing your loved ones you care about being a conscious consumer and making a positive impact on our planet.
ENJOY A PLANT BASED MEAL
Whether you're making dinner reservations or planning a homemade meal, try choosing a restaurant with plant based options or finding recipes that include more whole foods. Choose organic and locally sourced foods to directly cut down on carbon emissions and support local farmers.
BRING YOUR REUSABLES
This exact tip will get you far on any occasion if you're hoping to reduce waste. Don't be afraid to bring your reusables to the restaurant in case you have leftovers. Or if you're going on a picnic, pack your meal in reusable containers and make sure to bring utensils and cups for your date too ;)
CHOOSE LOCAL FLOWERS OR PLANTS
Americans spend over $2 billion on flowers on Valentines Day, most of which are imported and won't last longer than a couple of days. Check out your local florist for native plants that were grown in your area and choose paper packaging if you have the option! You can also pick flowers from a garden or buy potted plants!
MAKE YOUR OWN CARDS
Americans spend around $1.5 billion on cards for Valentines Day. Save money and paper and make your own! There's something about a card that's made and filled with love that's so special. Recycle old paper and get creative with you own joke or cute pun.
SUPPORT LOCAL
Want to truly get your loved ones a unique gift? Support local! There are so many small businesses with amazing options for gifts that are special and show you care (not only about them, but also for the local economy).
We hope these tips inspire you to spread the love in a new way!
