It's the time of year for love..
Let's spread some love without harming the environment.
We could have made a long list of the 'dos and don'ts' to have an 'eco-friendly' Valentine's, but that might be perceived as just a little boring. So we'll just suggest some ideas so you can show the planet a little love and try not to flood the environment with packaging!
 |
Looking out for Fairtrade chocolates and flowers is a start. The Rainforest Alliance have a green guide to Valentine's Day. Buy flowers with the “Certified' logo on. You may even find a chocolatier at a local Farm Shop to fulfil your 'shop local' ambitions! WigglyWigglers can arrange delivery of British grown bouquet complete with Fairtrade chocolate. www.wigglywigglers.co.uk
|
|
|
Find your way to you loved one's heart with something homemade. Have you got a heart shaped cookie cutter? Then make some homemade goodies. There are plenty of recipes online for biscuits. Remember to use recycled packaging!
|
|
|
Thinking of treating your loved one to a meal out? Check the directory of sustainable restaurants at www.thesra.org. The RSA was created in 2009 by a group of leading figures in the restaurant and sustainability sector. It is a 'one stop shop' for advice on sustainable issues that arise in the restaurant business. They ask their members to commit to sustainability and to carry out the recommended Key Actions. They are not exclusive, and work with a variety of restaurants throughout the British Isles. Members include Carluccio's, Prezzo and Raymond Blanc's celebrated establishment, Le Manoir aux Quat'Saison, but they do cover many neighbourhood favourites and plenty of independents too.
|
|
|
This is an idea for a keen gardener! A different twist for a Valentine present could be buying your loved one a bare root apple tree that will provide rosy red apples and act as a symbol of long lasting love.
|
|
|
If you are looking for a romantice getaway investigate www. sustainabletrip.org, a data base of tourism businesses that conserve natural resources, protect plants and wildlife, while supporting local communities. |
 |
 |
|
|
Love your garden birds during the cold spell. Make sure they have plenty of seeds and nuts to sustain them, Don't forget they need a supply of unfrozen water! |
And finally: Valentine surprise of the year! A heart shaped organic cheese from 'Godminster'! We found it at our local food hall in Suffolk and think it is a quirky and unusual way to attract your love's attention. As long as they like cheese, of course. www.godminster.com |
