Sustainability Spotlight - February 2025 - Sustainable Holidays and Gift Giving Tips

Valentine's Day, or any holiday for that matter, can be celebrated sustainably by using eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and supporting local businesses. Here are some quick and easy tips to keep in mind:

Use Eco-Friendly Products

• Use cloth napkins and reusable plates instead of paper
• Use eco-conscious wrapping paper
• Use sustainably grown coffee, chocolate, and organic wine. Cocoa farming causes 70% of global deforestation

Reduce Waste

• Use seasonal foods, which are healthier and have a lower carbon footprint
• Wrap gifts in upcycled materials like newspaper or fabric. Next year save and reuse some of your holiday wrapping

Support Local Businesses

• Buy handmade items from local artisans
• Share a local meal
• Help kids make eco-friendly cards in the classroom

Give Long-Lasting Gifts

• Give a living plant instead of flowers
• Give a reusable essential like a water bottle or coffee tumbler
• Give a solitary bee hive that provides shelter for native bees

By following these steps, you can start to turn sustainable living into habit and share your progress with friends and family!