Valentine’s Day is all about showing love and appreciation often through giving gifts. However, as much as we adore the heart-shaped chocolates, fresh flowers and romantic trinkets, there is a growing awareness of the environmental impact these products can have. But don’t worry! You can still celebrate with love and joy while being kind to the planet.
- Greeting Cards
- Choose cards made from 100% recycled paper or those labelled as recyclable. Be sure to remove any plastic glitter or embellishments before placing them in your recycling bin.
- Get creative! Reuse cards from previous years, or even repurpose them for crafts, such as bookmarks, gift tags, or scrapbooking.
Upcycling Tip: Turn a used card into a piece of art by cutting it into a heart shape and framing it as a keepsake.
- Flowers
- After the flowers wilt, compost them if possible. Organic matter like petals and stems can enrich soil and reduce landfill waste.
- The plastic wrap or cellophane that often accompanies bouquets can be recycled (if clean and free from other materials like tape).
Upcycling Tip: Use dried flowers in potpourri or DIY candles.
- Chocolates and Sweets
- First, check the packaging: If the packaging is made from recyclable materials (like cardboard or paper), it’s a good idea to dispose of it in the correct recycling bin.
- If the packaging has mixed materials, like plastic-coated wrappers or foil, check if local recycling programs accept these items.
Upcycling Tip: Reuse chocolate boxes or tins for storing small items or as gift boxes. If you would like to make sure your plastic confectionary tub is recycled, why not check out the #Tub2Pub campaign by Greene King and co-cre8!
- Jewellery
- If you receive jewellery in a plastic bag or excessive packaging, recycle those materials as appropriate. Some jewellery boxes can be reused or recycled if made from paperboard.
- If you’re ready to part with an old piece of jewellery, consider selling, donating or recycling it.
Upcycling Tip: Repurpose old jewellery into something new, like charm bracelets or new statement pieces.
- Candles
- Glass candle jars can be cleaned and recycled. Ensure you remove any leftover wax before placing the jar in your recycling bin.
- Leftover wax can be melted down and used to make new candles. You can also melt it into small cubes and use it as wax melts for your home.
Upcycling Tip: Candle jars make wonderful storage containers for things like cotton balls, makeup brushes or even as mini planters for succulents.
- Stuffed teddies
- Some stuffed teddies can be donated if in good condition. Many charitable organisations accept plush toys to give to children or pets in need.
- If the toy is no longer usable, check if the materials are recyclable or try upcycling the fabric for craft projects.
Upcycling Tip: Create a patchwork quilt or pillows from the fabric of old stuffed teddies.
- Wine or Champagne Bottles
- Glass wine and champagne bottles are 100% recyclable, so be sure to rinse them out and recycle them appropriately.
- Corks can be recycled in certain areas, or they can be repurposed for crafting projects.
Upcycling Tip: Use wine corks for DIY home decor like coasters or bulletin boards.
With a little creativity and mindfulness, you can enjoy a sustainable Valentine’s Day while showing love for both your special someone and the planet!
Happy sustainable Valentine’s Day!
