8 sustainable gift ideas for Valentine's Day
Instead of gifting the same old roses, perfume and chocolates on Valentine's Day, how about trying an original and eco-friendly present? We've got you covered.
A field of flowers instead of a floral bouquet
Conventional farming is one of the main reasons for the dramatic decline in insects across the world. Pesticides harm bugs already struggling to find a habitat and food. So how about sponsoring a piece of wild meadow? That way wildflowers can bloom, welcoming bees, butterflies and other insects. Plus, a photo of the adopted meadow lasts longer than any floral bouquet.
Say it with trees
Sponsoring a tree is another option. Trees store CO2 and are important allies in the fight against global warming. When choosing a tree to adopt, it's important to make sure it's not part of an agroforestry scheme where it will be felled after just a few years. Projects that take the needs of local communities into account are even better.
Something sweet for your sweetie
Some development organizations allow you to purchase livestock or bee colonies in the name of a person you want to surprise. Those animals are then gifted to people who need them to make a living. If your loved one is a fan of monkeys or elephants, they might also be happy to have a donation made to a wildlife reserve made in their name.
A romantic trip...
... is likely something you'll never forget. But the CO2 you emit will also hang around for a long time — in the atmosphere. So why not give your partner the gift of carbon offsetting on your next trip? Various organizations offer such schemes — and not just for flights. The money is invested in CO2-saving projects, such as solar kitchens for people who still cook with wood.
Coal instead of chocolate?
"Babe, my gift to you is that a coal power station will run for seven minutes less" — that's definitely original, right? It's not just companies and governments who can buy carbon credits. Environment organizations sell them to individuals, too. The idea is to purchase the credits so they won't be available for businesses to trade, thereby encouraging a switch to sustainable production.
Secondhand instead of new
Products that don't have to be produced from scratch save on resources like energy, water and fuel. Used items aren't just more climate-friendly than new ones, they're often also more original. You can find true gems with a real story in vintage stores, selling everything from clothing to household wares. And a growing number of online shops sell used electronics with warranties.
Time well spent
Sometimes spending quality time with your loved ones can say more than a gift ever could. We'll often remember a picnic, day trip, romantic dinner at home, a trip to the theater or movies or a hike at night for much longer than the material things we're given. And it can be better for the environment to boot.
If roses are a must
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere and you want roses for Valentine's Day, then you only have the choice between imported ones and those grown locally in a greenhouse. Imported roses are often the better choice for the environment, as heating a greenhouse releases more CO2 than the plane journey. That's unless the greenhouse uses renewable energy. Happy Valentine's Day!