With Valentine’s Day approaching, Australians are getting ready to celebrate the season of love.  

According to a survey by the Australian Retailers Association, spending on Valentine’s Day gifts has risen by 15 percent, surpassing $500 million for the first time this year. While buying gifts for our loved ones to mark the occasion is a meaningful gesture, it also contributes to a cycle of consumption that can lead to unnecessary waste and a larger environmental footprint.  

Gifts like flowers, chocolates and other novelty items tend to come with a hefty environmental price tag. Many are wrapped in packaging made from plastic or other materials that goes to waste after use. On top of that, the goods often travel long distances to reach us, creating increased carbon emissions from transportation. It's a cycle associated with many ‘consumer holidays’ that not only strains resources but also perpetuates an unsustainable lifestyle.  

With the rise in spending around this Valentine’s Day, it’s important to remind ourselves of the low-waste, eco-friendly and mindful gift options available. Doing so can help us care for the environment while avoiding falling into the trap of over-materialism.   

Here are some unique ways to show you care and celebrate the season of love in a more sustainable way:   

1. Skip traditional flowers and choose natives

The floral industry carries a significant carbon footprint, as we explore in our recent article. By opting for native floral bouquets, you not only enjoy a more unique and sustainable option than traditional cut flowers but also support local Aussie florists. For an even more sustainable option you can enjoy longer, choose potted natives that can be replanted or dried flowers that you can reuse.   

2. Make a donation on your loved one’s behalf 

Share the love this Valentine's Day by helping nature thrive. Donate to tree-planting initiatives like National Tree Day and The Seedling Bank and your contribution will directly benefit the planet and leave a lasting impact.  

3. Make their favourite treats

Nothing says love like a homemade meal or baked good! Spend quality time cooking or baking together. Check out this list for tasty and easy vegan recipes to try.  

4. DIY a special card of gift 

Create something special with your hands, like a personalised card, air-dry clay craft or a custom photo album for a personal touch, all while minimising unnecessary packaging waste.  

5. Tackle a sustainability challenge together 

Rather than giving a physical gift, why not go at it together? Whether it’s taking public transportation to minimise car use or practicing meatless days, taking big or small actions together is a meaningful way to care for each other and the planet.   

6. Choose practical gifts that support a low-waste lifestyle 

Such as everyday essentials like zero-waste starter kits, reusable beeswax wraps, a compost bin and other items that help reduce waste and promote a greener lifestyle.  

7. Gift locally sourced wine or spirits from vineyards 

It's a thoughtful way to support the environment while enjoying a special treat from vineyards and distilleries that prioritise sustainable practices. Read our previous article for tips on choosing more sustainable wine.  

8. Try low-waste dates 

Sometimes the most meaningful gift is time spent together. Whether it’s taking a hobby class, going for a picnic, solving puzzles together or having a movie night, these experiences create great memories without the waste.  

9. Opt for locally made gifts or secondhand products

Choose handcrafted jewellery, artisanal goods, secondhand books and one-of-a-kind pottery that your person will cherish.  

10. Enjoy a day in nature 

Spending time in nature offers a chance to reconnect with ourselves and each other, be free from any devices or screens and build a deeper connection with the planet. You could go on a hike, forest bath, look at trees or simply have a relaxing time at a scenic local nature spot.