It's Valentine's Day and while this column might not usually give relationship advice, this month we have tips on how to show your love for the most special someone of all: the planet!
- Let’s face it, no one over 13 actually wants a pink stuffed bear. So, skip the drugstore and focus on thoughtful, sustainable gifts. An experience you can share, something handmade or upcycled, or sustainable chocolates are all great gifts that won’t contribute to waste and unethical mass production.
- If you get a gift from someone you are not that into… or just don’t have space for, make sure to dispose of it properly. Both waste and love can be tricky but here are some quick tips: candy wrappers and gift wrap usually cannot be recycled, any food or flowers should be composted, and caring about the earth is always cute. If you have any questions (about waste, not love) you can also download the Eagle County Waste Wizard app!
- Set the mood…and reduce your energy use! Turn the thermostat down and the romance up with a cozy blanket and cuddling. Light a candle or two and shut off your lights to reduce electricity use. If you’re really serious, get a home energy assessment to see what other efficiency measures you could be taking to keep your home as warm as your heart this winter.
- Make date night sustainable and educational. We all know that love does not start and end on February 14, so take advantage of the wonderful events Walking Mountains has to offer coming up in the next few weeks. Our Climate Speaker Series, Sustainable Film Series, and Science Behind Programs all have amazing evening programming where you and your date can learn and discuss important issues. These are great opportunities to make sure a new partner isn’t secretly a climate denier or mix things up from your usual routine. Don’t have a date? No problem, these are also fun places to meet people who have similar interests to you. Plus these programs are FREE!
Although we can’t guarantee these tips will bring you love, if you follow them we will certainly have a healthier planet this Valentine’s Day!
Elizabeth Baer is the Sustainability Fellow at Walking Mountains.