Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to spread a bit of joy and show someone how much you care. Although it is important to show our loved ones how much we care, we also need to consider how our gifts affect our environment.
In the UK, approximately 40 million people celebrate their loved ones, which means millions of gifts are being purchased but at the expense of the environment. Over 25 million cards are sent every year, this equivalates to more than 8,000 trees being cut down. Not all cards are recyclable as they contain glitter, ribbons, and other materials that cannot be recycled, meaning they are just sent off to a landfill.
Alongside the waste produced for Valentine’s Day, a staggering 9 million kilograms of CO2 is released into the atmosphere, adding to the typical amount of CO2 released currently. However, there is a way to gift sustainably by shopping locally and finding ethical and eco-friendly businesses and brands that contribute to making the world green again.
Spread sustainability to the one you love, or yourself this Valentine’s Day with these 7 sustainable gifts.
How to Gift Sustainably
1 - Fairtrade Chocolate
When buying chocolate this Valentine’s Day, opt for chocolate that supports the environment and does not encounter any ethical issues. More and more chocolate is being sold in recyclable packaging, so remember to dispose of it correctly based on the type of packaging material used – if you’re unsure check the packaging for disposal instructions.
2 - Houseplants
Give your loved one a houseplant they can nurture forever as a symbol of your love, rather than a flower bouquet that only lasts a few days. Bring the outdoors and elevate your space with houseplants; there are so many plants to choose from! Still want to get flowers? Look for organic and locally sourced options.
3 - DIY Gifts
If you have the time, why not create something special for your partner? DIY gifts can show your love and dedication to them. Reuse products and materials that are lying around your home to ensure they are not being wasted.
4 - Cook a Homemade Meal for Two
Enlighten your partner with your culinary skills and cook them a romantic dinner. Not only is this cheaper than going out to a restaurant, but you’ll also get the chance to make their favourite meal, just how they like it. Use local and organic ingredients to make the meal even more eco-friendly – don’t forget to dispose of the packaging correctly!
5 - Eco-Friendly Hampers & Gift Sets
Does your partner have a particular interest that they enjoy? Treat them to a hamper and gift set focused on that interest! There are plenty of pre-made hampers available, from pampering and bathing hampers and gift sets to chocolate, snacks, and alcohol. There are also kits and guides on how to make your own to make it more personalised and less wasteful.
6 - Experience Days
Take them on an experience they’ll never forget. Not only does this create less waste, but it creates memories for both of you.
7 - Subscriptions
Go completely waste-free and pay for a set amount of payments to their favourite subscription or find them something new to try. Subscriptions come in all forms from entertainment to food, so you’ll be spoiled for choice in your subscription gift.
Remember to dispose of any packaging correctly to minimise waste so it can be reused or repurposed into another product.
