Nine green Valentine’s Day gifts your partner will hopefully love

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful celebration of love in all its forms, but it can also be an incredibly wasteful celebration where consumption overtakes the real sentiment of the day. So for February 14^th, why not show your partner that you love them and the planet by choosing one of these thoughtful gift ideas?

1. Potted plants instead of bouquets

A bouquet of roses is a classic (and expensive) gift, but also very short-lived. Roses and other cut flowers wilt within a few days, but a potted plant like a peace lily or a succulent is a long-lasting, living reminder of your love – and helps clean the air in your home too. And for further eco-inspiration a florist in north London reduces waste by giving unwanted blooms a new life by turns them into beautiful arrangements which are donated to care homes or sold at a lower price. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp3j4k7q92zo

2. Homemade chocolates

Not all chocolates are made equal, with many having excessive packaging and containing environmentally harmful palm oil. Instead, look for Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance chocolate brands. You could also make your own homemade treats by baking your partner’s favourite cake or make a batch of truffles with Fairtrade chocolate. You could even design your own re-usable packaging.

Read One Home’s tips for buying chocolate responsibly.

3. Eco-friendly candles

Create the right atmosphere with candles made from soy or beeswax instead of paraffin. Look for brands that use natural fragrances and sustainable packaging. These clean-burning candles are better for the environment and air quality but still set a romantic mood.

4. Upcycled and pre-worn jewellery

Jewellery is a classic Valentine’s Day gift, but pre-worn pieces or jewellery made from recycled metals and ethically sourced stones are far more desirable. You’ll be giving a unique gift with a story to tell. If you really are set on a brand-new diamond, lab grown gems have all the same qualities but without the mining implications.

5. A DIY memory scrapbook

There’s nothing more personal than a handmade gift. Gather old photos, ticket stubs, and other keepsakes to create a scrapbook of your favourite moments together. Use recycled paper and non-toxic glue to keep it extra eco-friendly.

6. Sustainable spa day

Treat your partner to a relaxing spa day at home. Look for organic bath salts, bamboo body brushes, and plastic-free beauty products. You could even add a homemade face mask using natural ingredients like avocado and honey.

Read our green date ideas for Valentine’s Day.

7. Plant a tree together

What’s more romantic than putting down roots together? Many organisations offer tree-planting programs you can donate to in your partner’s name. Better still, find a local initiative where you can plant a tree yourselves – it’s a great way to create a growing symbol of your love choosing the right tree for the right place.

8. Art from charity shops

If your loved one is an art lover, check out the pieces available on charity shop websites like Oxfam. There’s a wide selection on offer – from landscapes and still-life paintings, to abstract works and vintage posters.

9. Donate to a good cause

Many of us already have enough objects at home to fill every cupboard so instead of buying more ‘clutter’, consider donating to a good cause. The Disasters Emergency Committee www.dec.org.uk brings together leading aid agencies working over seas and the National Emergencies Trust raise funds for survivors in the UK.

Here at One Home we provide free environmental education on climate solutions so any support is gratefully appreciated. Help us continue our work.

Disclaimer

The information in this article was correct at the time of writing and is provided for guidance only. Please see the full disclaimer in our terms and conditions.

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