Did you know that many of the ways we traditionally celebrate Valentine’s Day don’t show a lot of love for the earth? This year, ditch the roses, which often require heavy pesticides and are shipped in from South America or even Africa. Try giving something local and sustainable like a potted plant from a neighborhood garden store. Instead of some cut flowers that die in a week, they’ll have a living, growing symbol of your affection. (Succulents are a great water-saving, hard-to-kill option for a sweetheart with no green thumb.) 

Present the plant along with a thoughtful, upcycled card made with pictures from old magazines or last year’s calendar, as well as some chocolate with the Rainforest Alliance seal of approval for a green-minded gift your loved ones will cherish long after the holiday is over. 

Livable staff are always on hand to help with questions about other ways to reduce your utility bills, save resources and protect the planet. Feel free to reach out at