Approximately 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged every year, not including the packaged cards that tend to be exchanged in classrooms. This makes Valentine’s Day the second largest holiday for card giving after Christmas. Unfortunately, this also translates to increased global waste, as Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, France, Australia, Denmark, and Italy.
Here are five ways you can reduce your waste while spreading the love this year:
Consider making your cards.
Although paper can be recycled, many Valentine’s Day cards include glittery, shiny, or fuzzy elements that cannot. Try making cards with the kids! Download Zero Waste Nashville’s card making activity here.
Give the gift of baked goods.
Make homemade goodies to save on that box of chocolates – and avoid all the packaging. Try these easy chocolate truffles or make your own whipped cream.
Eat locally.
Make reservations at a restaurant that offers locally grown or organic food to reduce environmental impact associated with emissions along your food’s route to the table.
Skip the bouquet.
Potted plants last longer than cut flowers, offering a more sustainable reminder of your love. Plus, flowers like tulip and hydrangeas bloom in the spring making them perfect for a green thumb ready to return to the garden after winter.
Dispose responsibly.
If you do go with cut flowers, use a local supplier and make a plan for disposal. Donate large arrangements to churches or charities, make potpourri, or compost them.
