#112: Make the World Your Valentine (Friday, February 13)

I don't celebrate Valentine's Day, but realizing that many people do, I've decided to make it the topic for this week.

The Impact: Nearly one billion valentine cards are sent each year globally, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christmas. That's enough cards to stretch around the world 5 times, if laid end-to-end. Over 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are sold each year and V-Day is the top holiday for purchasing fresh flowers. Ten percent of all engagements happen on Valentine's Day. With these statistics, it's not hard to see the potential impact of this mass consumption on our en

The Idea:

• Send plantable cards (similar to the ones from my birthday), or cards made from recycled or tree-free paper. Or you can cut the cost down altogether by sending an e-card.

• If you're giving chocolate, choose fair trade products that give back to the farmers, or try organic products that are easier on the environment.

• Give locally-grown flowers from the farmer's market, or at least make sure they're organically grown.

• Nothing says "I love you" like planting a tree, or giving a donation to an environmentally-friendly organization in your Valentine's name.

• If jewelry is your thing, purchase from jewelers who are certified to be sourcing precious metals and gemstones in an ecologically and socially responsible manner.
  

• Have dinner at a local restaurant specializing in organic or locally grown food, or donate excess food to responsible organizations.
  

The Result: Supporting locally-grown products cuts down on food miles (and as a result, carbon emissions, gas and other by products used in transportation). Organic products are healthier for your body, and supporting fair trade helps to build strong communities and create sustainable farming practices.