Red may be the traditional color, but this year, why not go “green” for Valentine’s Day! Here are a few ways to re-think the holiday for greener, more environmentally-friendly gift giving. The James River and the earth will love you for it:
Gold -
Mining gold is a dirty process. Open pit mining (the method most used in the U.S.) produces 8 to 10 times the amount of waste rubble as an underground mine. Only a small percentage of the rock removed actually contains gold. The gold must be extracted in a process that often includes the use of cyanide. The cyanide is then held in retainer ponds for reuse. These toxins can leach into ground water or end up in streams and lakes. In addition, mercury emissions from the mining of gold is a major source of air pollution in several states in the western U.S.
Diamonds -
Anyone who has seen the movie, “Blood Diamond,” knows the personal toll at which this treasured gem is mined. While diamonds are mined in various ways, most mining removes large quantities of soil and uses water for extraction. In Africa, where water is a scarce resource, this only makes a serious situation worse. When purchasing a diamond, make sure it comes from an industry source that is working to ensure ethical practices for people and the environment.
Roses-
How far have your flowers traveled? Many of the roses found in U.S. florists have been grown in East Africa or South America. That’s a lot of air miles and a big carbon footprint for a flower that only lasts a few days. A houseplant may not be as romantic as a rose, but it can have added benefits to the environment. If you give a potted hydrangea, a colorful pepper plant, or a rosemary shrub, you can plant it in the garden this spring.
Cards –
According to the Waterkeeper Alliance, the paper industry is the largest consumer of water and the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the U.S. When buying Valentines, look for cards made from recycled paper or make your own cards using recycled items in your home. Better yet, send an e-Valentine!
Chocolate-
It’s everyone’s last-minute go-to gift idea. Read the label and look for chocolate that is organic and supports Fair Trade and environmentally responsible production. This means the cocoa used in the making of the chocolate was grown in a manner that empowers the grower (usually a small, independent farmer), provides a fair wage, prevents the exploitation of children, and produces cocoa in a manner that is environmentally safe and sustainable. A sweet deal all the way around!
Nothing says “I love the James River and my local environment” better than being a JRA member. Help protect your favorite romantic spot on the river. Give your Valentine a gift membership in the James River Association! Go to http://www.jamesriverassociation.org/ to make a gift membership.
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