February Challenge
Valentines Day holds many traditions making it special. What most hold dear in their memory most often involves cards, chocolate and flowers. But don't forget the most important thing of all - quality time. SLP encourages tradition, but with a green twist this year.
Green Cards
E-cards. We spend the same time reading a card as we would on the computer! Send one early to those you know online and explore other opportunities for thoughtfulness in person.
Create a card. Use the endless resources of the Internet to find a verse of poetry or statement that reads exactly what you want to express to your Valentine. Print it on tree-free paper with the decorations of your choice.
Chocolate and candy
There are plenty of choices when it comes to sweets! A few things to keep in
mind that makes chocolate or candy "green"
Organic. Organic chocolate is produced using little or no chemicals, such as
fertilizers and pesticides, which is better for the workers at the plantations,
for you, and for the environment.
Local. Buying local sweets (may we suggest Lowry's in Yorktown, or Abbott's
in Hagerstown?) helps the local economy and supports a local food system. This
in turn helps reduce the so-called food miles, which means less transportation
and less air pollution. In a nutshell.
Fair trade. Fair Trade certification means that the chocolate you buy is guaranteed
to pay the plantations and their workers a fair price for their product. By
doing so you don't just help the people at the plantation, but you ensure that
they can provide good working conditions and protect the environment, too.
Flowers
Reduce your impact on natural resources and give a single rose in the color of your choice for loved ones. Also consider giving a houseplant, or buy flowers from a local nursery (there are several in town, G&M, Wasson's) to reduce transportation. Many nurseries sell both flowers and boquets, as well as houseplants and make sure to ask if the plants you buy were raised in their own greenhouses! Try to find a green choice for the wrapping, such as paper instead of plastic or just use less. The bonus? You'll have a very unique gift for your Valentine.
Dinner
Try to eat with the seasons to minimize transportation. In February you say? Don't fret! Asparagus, for example, is a seasonal vegetable this time of year, and many other local favorites are grown in greenhouses by local farmers. Check out the Downtown Farm Stand and the Minnetrista Orchard Shop for some ideas. For more ideas on local food, check out this site.
Other green ideas
Explore options in pre-owned and antique jewelry.
Give natural fragrances with no harsh chemicals.
Give a gift special to you that you already own.
Find your local holistic therapy provider and give a gift certificate.
Want more? See our previous challenges.
