Every Valentine’s Day seems to be about buying tons of gifts, chocolates and flowers, to express our commitment and appreciation for a special person this day. However there is someone who loves us all and shows it every day. Yes, it is our dear planet which provides us with everything we could imagine.
Whether or not you have a special someone in your life to celebrate this day with, you are more than welcome to give some of that commitment to our green home. Here are 5 ways you can show your love to the Earth.
1. Dress more consciously
Good news – you can care for the planet and still look fabulous this Valentine’s day. You ask – how? Choose your clothing consciously
What does a conscious consumer means? A conscious consumer uses their individual actions to create positive global impact. They look beyond the label. They want to know more about the company they are buying from, where the garment comes from, how it was made, what it is made of and how it arrives at the shop.
You can become a conscious consumer by investing in quality ‘timeless’ pieces that can last a longer time rather than buying new clothes every season and especially from fast fashion stores. When you want to buy something new think ‘cost per wear’ and ask yourself how many times you will wear what you are about to buy. Also, it can be helpful to create your own style story, so this way it can be easier to shop for clothes that work for you, without wasting your money and by stopping contributing to the planet’s problems.
As an alternative you can try second hand shopping because you can help the environment and preserve natural resources while saving money. You also support the local businesses and it’s guaranteed that you will find some unique items. If you never went shopping in a second hand shop you can try buying an outfit for Valentine’s Day, you will definitely find some elegant dresses or suits and also some vintage accessories!
“Demand quality not just in the products you buy, but in the life of the person who made it.”
Orsola de Castro
2. Hand made gifts
Hand made objects require less energy and natural resources which result in significantly lower carbon footprints than items made on mass-production assembly lines. Buying local, handmade products can give the consumer the opportunity to actively use and reuse a quality product rather than constantly buying new replacements but at the same time it takes a big part when it comes to strengthening the communities.
These products are handcrafted with care, precision and high quality materials that make them longer-lasting products. Additionally, they are completely unique and individual to any person who buys them. Instead of wasting your money on basic Valentine’s Day gifts you can go to your local hand made store and get an unique and personal gift to impress your partner.
3. Eco-Tourism
Being green on vacation doesn’t take a lot of effort or doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your pleasures. You choose destinations that are safeguarding and not exploiting nature. Such can be natural or wildlife parks with entrance fees, where the money goes to protection and management of these areas, or seek out experiences directly offered by locals. It is a different and diverse choice that contributes economically to natural and social development at your destination.
Also, you can book a hotel with green practices because many properties include green practices for example they can be an extensive recycling program, using LED lighting or having power systems that expend less energy or using solar greenhouses and producing fresh ingredients for the restaurant. You can organize a nice vacation for Valentine’s Day together with your partner while being sustainable. Use green transportation by relying on biking and walking to explore your destination, this can give you a better sense of place as a traveler.
4. Eat what is seasonal
Consider buying and eating locally grown produce. It doesn’t only taste better but it’s much better for the environment. Most of us give little thought to the effects of this long-distance travel on not only the nutritional value of our food, but also the environmental impact, including fuel emissions.
Dutch foods that are always in season include potatoes, cauliflower, leeks, carrots and so much more! So take care of the planet and make yourself (and your loved one) some delicious roasted potatoes or a delicious vegetable soup this Valentine’s day.
5. Volunteering someplace
Volunteering is always a great thing to do. There are several reasons why people decide to volunteer, and giving back to the community or to the world is generally at the top of the list. By its very nature, volunteerism is an important vehicle for sustainable development. Volunteerism lets people and communities participate in their own growth.
One great way to volunteer and to help the environment is to take part in second hand community; volunteer at your local charity shop or help collect donations. Cleaning up around you is also an easy way to volunteer; helping to clean up discarded items that pollute the environment.
