20 Ways to Have An Eco-Friendly Valentine’s Day

By: Ariana Palmieri

Yes, I’m fully aware that February just started, but it’s never too late to start planning for Valentine’s Day! I’ll admit I’m pretty biased (V-Day is one of my favorite holidays). That said, there’s no reason why you can’t make this Valentine’s Day a green one (in spirit, not in color). And yes, even if you’re single, this still applies to you. I mean, you can still celebrate V-day with your family and friends, you know? Here are some really simple, cute ways to make this romantic holiday as sweet for the earth as it is for your honey.

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1. Buy organic chocolate (look for the organic label – you can probably even find some in CVS or your local supermarket). Or better yet, make your own vegan, no-bake zero waste chocolate.

2. Instead of buying a card, write a poem or handwritten letter on the back of a photograph of you and your partner (or your friend/family member!). They’ll appreciate it a lot more and be less likely to throw it out.

3. Get crafty and DIY your gifts: For women, try making her a sugar body scrub, lotion, or candles (Pinterest has tons of ideas). For men, try making one of these crafts.

4. Make some delicious (and vegan) sweets and treats to help you and your lover stay healthy (and kind to the environment).

5. Before you buy flowers from your florist, ask if they’ve been treated with pesticides.

6. Spruce up your house with some super cute, DIY V-Day themed mason jars (or better yet, gift them to people!).

7. Instead of giving her flowers, why not take her to flowers? In other words: Find a botanical garden close to you where all the plants are still alive, thriving, and beautiful!

8. Can’t go out to eat? Why not make your partner (or friends/family) a tasty dinner made using all organic ingredients? They’ll be sure to taste the difference (bonus points if you use only-seasonal produce, too).

9. Take a walk in the park together (what better way to admire nature than to spend time in it?).

10. Wear all-natural, romantic makeup on the big day, like a bold red lip or a sultry smoky eye. You can make your own makeup if you’re low on cash. Here’s how to make lipstick and eye makeup. 

11. Invest in a naturally scented perfume (that won’t give you an allergic reaction). Try making your own plant perfume or solid perfume.

12. Make your own rosewater and spritz it on yourself before your date, or use it to hydrate you face (it smells fantastic and embodies the essence of Valentine’s Day).

13. Find a restaurant to eat at that sources their food from local farms (I guarantee you the food will taste all the fresher).

14. Make DIY rose bath bombs (cause why not?).

15. Make zero waste hot cocoa for two (trust me, it tastes delicious).

16. Make a healthy, homemade chocolate cake (here are a few recipes I recommend). Try putting a zero waste spin on them by getting all the ingredients in bulk!

17. Buy vintage jewelry off Etsy, instead of new jewelry (vintage items are better for the environment because no new resources need to be wasted on creating them – they’re already made!). Don’t worry, there are lots of beautiful options to choose from.

18. Do a fun, ecofriendly activity together that you can play music to, like cooking an organic meal or making seed bombs together.

19. Go on a picnic together at a place you won’t be disturbed (bonus points if you pack organic, homemade food).

20. Go stargazing using a telescope or binoculars in a remote area (super romantic!).