Best Sustainable Valentine's Day Presents

Valentine's Day is secretly one of my favorite holidays. As much as I tend to reject kitsch and commercialism, there's just nothing in the world like a holiday centered around the expression of love in all its forms. Unfortunately, Valentine's Day is almost as bad as Christmas when it comes to unsustainable traditions. From pesticide-laden roses to slave-grown chocolate, conventional Valentine's Day gifts are a nightmare for our planet. If you'd like to make this Valentine's Day greener, here are some classically romantic gift options that won't hurt the environment.

Sustainable Flowers

Nothing says "Valentine's Day" like a dozen red roses. You may be able to find sustainable flowers at your local florist or at a Whole Foods supermarket. Look for blooms that are VeriFlora-certified. Although these flowers are not necessarily organic, they are grown using sustainable methods that at least minimize the use of pesticides. If they're not available locally, check OrganicBouquet.com for sustainable Valentine's Day roses.

Organic Chocolate

I am a rabid chocoholic. But I don't want just any old lump of cocoa and sugar. I want something organic, fair-trade, exotic, and utterly delicious. Fortunately, there's no shortage of fine organic chocolate. Just one visit to your local health food store will reveal the luxurious lavender and xocoatl chocolates from Dagoba, or the sweetly romantic poetry-and-chocolate combos by Chocolove. For your animal-loving lover, go for Endangered Species chocolates, which support habitat conservation and biodiversity.

Eco-Friendly Jewelry

If you really want to wow your sweetie this Valentine's Day, go for the glitter-- sustainably. Recent years have brought forth several respectable businesses that manufacture and sell sustainable jewelry. Eco-friendly gold, conflict-free diamonds, and fair-trade gemstones make these beauties as earth-friendly as they are romantic. Check out Brilliant Earth, Green Karat or Ruff & Cut for the best sustainable jewelry options.

A romantic Valentine's Day doesn't have to come at the expense of our planet's health and sustainability. This Valentine's Day, be responsible and choose a gift that will flatter both your loved one and our planet.