Gifting With Heart - Thoughtful Gifts That Love The Planet Too
Photo by alleksana: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cards-and-envelopes-6478943/
Valentine’s Day - love it or loathe it, it’s hard to ignore! There are countless ways to say “I love you” or show someone they’re appreciated, and it doesn’t have to involve grand (and often wasteful) gestures. A heartfelt note, a shared experience, or a meaningful gift can be just as, if not more, special. That said, if you’re in the market for a grand gesture, there are definitely better ways to do it - without costing the Earth.
The reality is that Valentine’s Day generates an alarming amount of waste. In the UK alone, over 25 million Valentine’s cards are sent each year, most of which are not recyclable due to glitter, foil, or plastic embellishments. Around 40% of gifts given on the day are unwanted, and a huge portion ends up in landfill. Let’s not even talk about the excessive plastic packaging from chocolates and flowers flown halfway across the world.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some truly thoughtful, stylish, and sustainable gift ideas that your loved one (and the planet) will appreciate.
1. Give a Gift That Gives Back
Instead of another cliché present, why not give a gift with real impact? Choose Love offers incredible options like emergency supplies, food packs, or educational support for refugees in the name of your loved one. It’s the ultimate way to spread love beyond just the 14th of February.
2. A Bag That Means Business
If you're looking for a stylish yet sustainable gift, consider a bag from Been London. Their designs are crafted from recycled materials and handmade in London, making them a chic, eco-friendly choice that supports ethical fashion.
3. Sweet Treats That Do Good
Chocolate is always a winner, but let’s make it guilt-free! Tony’s Chocolonely not only tastes amazing but is also 100% ethically produced. Delicious, meaningful, and wrapped in recyclable packaging - it’s a no-brainer, you can even get your bar personalised.
4. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Sparkle Without the Guilt
If you’re planning to pop the question (or just want to treat someone special), lab-grown diamonds are the ethical and sustainable choice. Brands like Monica Vinader offer stunning, conflict-free diamonds that have a much lower environmental impact than traditional mining.
5. Eco-Friendly Getaway: A Trip to Copenhagen
For those looking to go big, why not opt for a sustainable getaway? Copenhagen is one of the world’s greenest cities, offering eco-friendly hotels, bike-friendly streets, and experiences like tree-planting initiatives and beach clean-ups in exchange for local perks.
6. For the Stylish Man: Neem London
Neem London creates timeless, high-quality menswear pieces from recycled and organic materials. Whether it’s a soft cotton shirt or a sleek jacket, this is fashion with purpose that’s made to last.
7. A Vegan Cookery Course
Food is the way to many hearts, so why not gift an experience? A vegan cookery course is a fun, interactive way to bond while learning sustainable, planet-friendly cooking skills. Plus, it’s an excuse to enjoy delicious meals together.
8. Say It with Sustainable Flowers
Cut flowers have a huge carbon footprint, but if you love the idea of gifting blooms, opt for B Corp-certified florists like Freddie’s Flowers or Bloom & Wild. They focus on minimal waste, sustainable sourcing and deliveries, and recyclable packaging.
9.A Beach Clean-Up Experience
For a truly unique and meaningful date, why not sign up for a beach clean-up together? You’ll spend the day outdoors, help the planet, and leave with the feel-good factor of making a real difference.
Let’s not forget about cards and wrapping. A heartfelt message is always a beautiful touch, but let’s keep it green. Opt for recyclable or biodegradable cards or get creative and make your own - just avoid glitter and foil, which can’t be recycled. When it comes to wrapping, think reusable fabric wraps, recycled paper, or even repurposed magazines for a quirky touch.
Valentine’s Day should be about celebrating love in all its forms - without harming the planet. Whether you choose an experience, a meaningful gift, or a simple handwritten note, the most important thing is the thought behind it. Let’s move away from mindless consumerism and towards gifting with purpose. After all, love should be kind - to people and the planet.