As we tread our way through the long winter season where the days are short and the air is cold, we can’t help but look forward to Valentine’s Day. It’s the first “holiday” of the year, and one that replaces snowflakes and sleds with brighter pink and red decor. I can’t help but enjoy the day myself, especially as my daughter’s birthday falls on this special day. Yet this year will be different, as we turn this special holiday into something a bit greener.

Think about all the décor for Valentine’s Day: Cards, flowers, expensive meals out, coupon books, chocolates and all the gift wrap and tissue paper to make everything look just right. Now think about where all that stuff goes: In the trash. It’s not often that we keep the hundred little cards that our kids come home from school with or are able to outsmart Mother Nature by allowing our dozen roses to live past a week.

This year, try swapping out some of your standard Valentine’s Day gifts for a greener version that is gentler on the environment, but still guaranteed to bring just as many smiles. I know our family will.

Instead of paper cards, try…

Virtual or E-Cards. These fun cards can be sent to anyone’s email address. They can be customized any way you like, plus include fun graphics, music and the name of your recipient. Most of them are free as well, so you can save your money on cards this year! E-cards are great for all occasions, not just Valentine’s Day (hint hint).

Recycled Cards. These cards are made from recycled paper, so they’re much gentler on the environment. Recycled cards do cost more however, so be prepared to spend more. Look for those that are printed with soy-based ink as well. To save money, buy plain recycled paper that your little ones can decorate themselves.

Instead of flowers, try…

Organic Flowers. If you love your red roses come Valentine’s Day, try a dozen organic roses. They may be harder to find than your traditional selection, so know that you probably won’t find them at your local supermarket. Instead, reach out to local nurseries that have organic selections of flowers, or try an organic bouquet company online that can have the roses shipped to the home.

Fake Flowers. We know they’re not like the real thing, but these days, you can get beautiful arrangements of silk or recycled paper flowers that don’t look any different than their authentic alternatives. Best of all, you get to the keep the flowers forever.

Instead of a box of chocolates, try…

Fair Trade Chocolate. That’s right; even chocolate may come from environments where laborers are not treated fairly. And who gets tired of those chocolate boxes where every piece is a surprise – and not a good one? Spring for an organic chocolate bar instead where you know what you’re getting, plus supporting conflict-free work environments.

Instead of jewelry from a retailer, try…

Fair Trade Gems. Many of us know that we should always ask for Fair Trade certification on gems such as diamonds, but not all of us do. If you’re buying the good stuff this year, make sure that you ask for certification on the gem, as well as its tracking history.

Recycled Gems. Recycled jewelry is becoming more popular. It’s just as good as the real thing, plus you can feel proud about its origin. Look for recycled metal coupled with natural stones and gems. Best of all, this type of jewelry has a story of its own and won’t have a dozen copycats out there.

Image: John Hritz