Hey lovebirds! With Valentine’s Day on Wednesday, let’s consider celebrating love while also showing some love to the planet. Instead of falling into the trap of consumerism, why not embrace sustainability and make this Valentine’s Day extra special? Here are some fun and eco-friendly ideas to inspire you:
Picnic in the Park: Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can have a romantic picnic in the park? Pack a basket with some delicious homemade treats, a cozy blanket, and a bottle of wine (don’t forget the reusable wine glasses!), and spend the afternoon basking in each other’s company surrounded by nature. It’s a simple yet heartfelt way to celebrate your love while minimising your environmental impact.
Green Gifts: If you’re planning on exchanging gifts, why not opt for something eco-friendly? Think reusable water bottles, organic chocolates, or a potted plant to brighten up your home. Not only are these gifts kinder to the planet, but they also show that you care about sustainability—a win-win!
Cook Together: Instead of going out to eat, why not stay in and cook a delicious meal together? Pick out a recipe that you’ve been dying to try, hit up the local farmer’s market for some fresh ingredients, and get cooking! Not only is it a fun and intimate activity, but it also allows you to support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint by eating locally sourced food.
Plant a Tree: Want to make a lasting impact this Valentine’s Day? Consider planting a tree together! Whether it’s in your backyard, a local park, or as part of a community tree-planting initiative, planting a tree is a meaningful way to symbolize your love and commitment to each other and the planet. Plus, you’ll be helping to offset your carbon footprint and create habitat for wildlife—talk about a romantic gesture!
Second-hand Surprises: Who says gifts have to be brand new? Embrace the thrill of the hunt and scour thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces for unique and one-of-a-kind treasures. From vintage vinyl records to retro clothing to antique jewellery, there’s something special about giving—and receiving—a pre-loved gift that has a story to tell.
Take a Hike: Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails for a romantic outdoor adventure. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the woods or a challenging hike to a scenic viewpoint, spending time in nature is a wonderful way to connect with each other and the world around you. Just don’t forget to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen!
Write Love Letters: In this digital age, there’s something incredibly romantic about putting pen to paper and writing a heartfelt love letter to your partner. Pour your heart out onto the page, expressing your deepest feelings and appreciation for everything they mean to you. It’s a timeless gesture that will be treasured for years to come.
Give Back: Spread the love this Valentine’s Day by giving back to your community or supporting a cause that’s near and dear to your hearts. Whether it’s volunteering at a local soup kitchen, donating to a wildlife conservation organization, or organizing a fundraiser for a charitable cause, there’s no shortage of ways to make a positive impact together.
Plant Coral in The Name of Love
This sustainable gift idea is the lovechild of Fiji and the Coral Gardeners who will plant and nurture the fledging coral in the name of love, helping to keep the beautiful but fragile coral reefs surrounding Fiji thriving for New Zealanders to continue enjoying for years to come. Just purchase the coral online here(from just $25) add the name of your valentine and receive a downloadable card, along with a picture of the fledging coral to gift your loved one February 14th.
Go Digital: If you’re exchanging cards or gifts, consider going digital instead of opting for paper or plastic. Send a heartfelt e-card, create a digital photo album, or gift an e-book or digital subscription. Not only will you be reducing waste, but you’ll also be embracing technology in a thoughtful and sustainable way.
