Home & Garden
Green with Love: Valentine's Day is a Good Reminder to Love the Earth with Recycling and Reduction
Waste Management recommends alternatives to traditional tokens of affection that make the holiday of red and pink a little greener
Oakland, Calif. — Feb. 9, 2015 — Greeting cards, the most common Valentine’s Day symbol, contribute to a big spike in annual waste production. According to the Greeting Card Association, 190 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually. This year, Waste Management urges the public to consider eco-friendly gifts for loved ones, and to follow simple recycling guidelines to love the Earth, too.
“Valentine’s Day doesn’t produce as much waste as Christmas, but when you consider what goes into a card or some flowers, it’s easy to understand that a few small changes can make a big difference for the environment,” said Rebecca Jewell, recycling program manager, Waste Management of Alameda County. “You can be good to your loved ones and the environment on Valentine’s Day. It just takes a little creativity, planning and Cupid’s green arrow.”
GREEN GIFT IDEAS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY
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- Valentine cards - Save trees in the name of love by sending an e-card. If the card is a must, make sure it’s printed on recycled paper or make one from scratch using everyday items around the house.
- Photo gifts – Another alternative to a traditional card is using recycled materials and your favorite photos to create a scrapbook, decorate a picture frame or create an electronic slideshow to share with that special someone.
- Flowers – Instead of floral arrangements, consider planting a tree for your loved one. If flowers are non-negotiable, look for organic flowers that were grown without pesticides, or purchase flowers from a store that composts its pre-consumer food waste, including floral items.
- Jewelry – Consider buying heirloom jewelry from a vintage dealer. If you want to buy new, choose a jeweler whose gems and precious metals are certified ecologically friendly.
- Home-cooked meals – Show your loved ones you care by cooking with fresh, local, organic ingredients.
- Recycle Often. Recycle Right. – Learn the basics of proper recycling by visiting RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com, where residents can find out what items can go in their recycling containers, and which ones to avoid. In addition, Waste Management invites love birds to share their eco-friendly Valentine’s Day tips and ask questions via Twitter and Instagram, using hashtag #RORR.
By making a commitment to go green, Alameda County can show their love for future generations of romantics.
