For immediate release
Change from Red to Green this Valentine’s Day
Tips from Earth Day Canada to show the planet some love
TORONTO (11/02/09) – This February 14th is a great opportunity to show the planet some love and celebrate an environmentally friendly Valentine’s Day, according to Earth Day Canada (EDC).
“It is time to mix a little green into the red this Valentine’s Day,” said Jed Goldberg, President, EDC. “What better time to think about how we can help our environment than on a day devoted to love and well-being. It’s easy to say ‘I love you’ with a card or a box of chocolates, try being creative and doing something that will really make a lasting impression on the person you care about.”
Some of EDC’s tips include:
Green Cards — If you are giving a card, try making your own from reused materials or, sending an e-card instead. Each Valentine’s Day, over one billion cards are given around the world. That is more than a few trees worth of ‘I love yous’. Before you pick up that card, think if there is something a little more imaginative you could do. Most cards get thrown out. A simple gesture will often be much more memorable.
Green Entertainment — Consider gifts that can be purchased online. The internet offers us unlimited access to gifts with very little environmental impact. For the reader or music lover in your family download an e-book or a new album. Electronic files eliminate all packaging. Legally downloaded movies also provide entertainment and eliminate the excess packaging.
Green Experiences — Your loved one may appreciate an “experience” gift such as a membership at a local arts or cultural centre, or lessons for something of interest.
Green Charities — Spread the Valentine’s spirit around. Hold back on the gifts and make a charitable donation instead. And if you select an environmental cause such as Earth Day Canada, your choice will help the earth in many ways.
Green Traditions — Rethink some of your Valentine’s traditions. Challenge yourself to make this Valentine’s Day a zero waste day. It can make the day more fun and different from any you have celebrated in the past. Cook a romantic meal at home instead of buying flowers and a box of chocolates. Why not go skating or tobogganing and share a hot chocolate to warm up afterwards.
“It’s tough to change our habits and the way we do things, but taking a ‘doing vs. consuming’ attitude is a great way to make it a little easier on the environment”, said Goldberg. “A small gesture, made by millions of Canadians, can go a long way to saving resources. Think of it as a Valentine’s Day gift for the planet.”
EDC strives to show Canadians that small changes in their lifestyle can go a long way. Throughout 2009, EDC will be showing Canadians how to take ‘baby steps to avoiding a big footprint’.
About Earth Day Canada
Earth Day Canada (EDC), a national environmental charity founded in 1990, provides Canadians with the practical knowledge and tools they need to lessen their impact on the environment. In 2004 it was recognized as the top environmental education organization in North America, for its innovative year-round programs and educational resources, by the Washington-based North American Association for Environmental Education, the world's largest association of environmental educators. In 2008 it was chosen as Canada’s “Outstanding Non-profit Organization” by the Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication. EDC regularly partners with thousands of organizations in all parts of Canada. www.earthday.ca
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Contact: Keith Treffry | Communications Director | Earth Day Canada | 416.599.1991 x 107 | keith@earthday.ca