10 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day Sustainably
Valentine's Day is the opportunity to show our love for our dear ones in meaningful yet sustainable ways. As the day of love, this shouldn't just mean partners, but also family and friends - and the planet. Here are some creative and eco-friendly ways to make this Valentine's Day memorable, for yourself, those closest to you, and our planet:
1. Gifts with Meaning
Instead of traditional gifts like that may contribute to waste, consider thoughtful and sustainable alternatives such as experiences like a romantic picnic, an outdoor cinema night (find one or create one in your own backyard!), a cooking class, or a calligraphy class. Prefer something more tangile? Try a subscription to a digital service - podcast networks, audiobooks, workout classes, or movie services - and there's zero waste!
Image source: In Honor of Design
2. DIY Delights
Get crafty and express your love through handmade gifts like homemade cookies, or a scrapbook filled with cherished memories. Handwritten letters add a personal touch and eliminate the need for excessive packaging.
3. Sustainable Sweets
Indulge in delicious treats without compromising on sustainability. Choose Fair Trade and ethically made chocolates, organic desserts, or bake your own goodies using locally sourced ingredients. Consider vegan or gluten-free options to cater to different dietary preferences while reducing your carbon footprint.
4. Shop and Eat Local
If you choose to shop for a gift or eat out, look for local businesses you can support rather than one part of a large corporation or big chain. Look for small Australian businesses like yours truly :)
because when you do, there’s literally people at the other end literally doing a small dance!
5. Green Gifting
Give back to the planet by supporting environmental causes or charities in your partner's name. Plant a tree together, adopt an endangered species, or donate to organisations working towards environmental conservation. It's a meaningful way to celebrate love while making a positive impact on the world.
6. Quality Time
Ultimately, Valentine's Day is about spending quality time with your loved ones. Plan activities that foster connection and create lasting memories. Whether it's a romantic dinner at home, stargazing under the night sky, or volunteering together for a cause you both care about, cherish the moments you share.
7. Local Flowers or Potted Plants
If you or your loved one just have to have flowers, look for organically grown options from your local plant nursery as cut flowers usually contain toxic pesticides. You can also consider potted plants for an option that will last longer than a week! Take your pick of the flowers or colours you would like to see bloom in your house!
8. Sustainable Wine
When choosing a drink for your celebration, look for the Australian Organic Certification or a certified biodynamic wine.
9. An Extra Nice Gesture
Actions often speak louder than words, so sometimes, it’s simply an act of kindness that is a gesture of appreciation, such as making a coffee for your partner in the morning, or washing the dishes for the partner who usually does them; a message to a friend you haven’t been in touch in for a long time to show that you are thinking of them. Small nice gestures can mean a world of
difference.
10. Self-Care
Lastly, it’s important to remember that you must be able to look after yourself before you can care for others. You can choose to spend this Valentine’s Day as a self-indulgent day with a massage or spa, or a night at home with your favourite book or TV show!
This Valentine's Day, let's celebrate in a way that honours our planet and strengthens our bond with each other as part of
sustainable living, with meaningful experiences that leave a positive impact on our loved ones, and our world.