Love the Planet This Valentine’s Day: Simple Ways to Cut Waste in Leicestershire

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean piles of packaging, pricey roses or gifts that end up gathering dust. With a few simple swaps, you can show someone you care and cut waste here in Leicestershire.

One of the biggest waste culprits is the traditional Valentine’s card. Every year, over a billion cards are exchanged, many of which end up in the bin soon after they’re opened. Choosing a homemade card, that is made from repurposed and recyclable materials or sending an e‑card is a simple way to cut waste while keeping things personal.

Flowers are another surprising source of waste. Sometimes for Valentine’s Day, bouquets are embellished with glitter or non-recyclable items and they may also be quite heavily packaged. If you wanted to remove the waste you could consider a potted plant, which lasts far longer and has a smaller environmental impact. Any flowers that are past their best but haven’t got glitter or other items attached can also be composted.

If you’re planning to give a gift, thinking second‑hand is both sustainable and thoughtful. Buying pre‑loved jewellery or gifts saves money, often it supports local charities and reduces demand for new products. You could even get creative and make your own treats — from biscuits to bath salts — for a heartfelt, low‑waste alternative.

Chocolate is a Valentine’s classic, but not all options are equal. Some chocolate is heavily packaged, especially those boxed for the big day. Recycle all the components that can be recycled: cardboard, trays or tubs at home and flexible plastics at a supermarket. If any of the chocolates don’t get eaten, you can always look at ways to turn them into something new you can find tips and advice on the Love Food Hate Waste website https://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/blog/how-love-food-and-hate-waste-valentines-day

Finally, why not skip the physical gifts altogether and gift an experience? A home (saving any leftovers), a walk in one of Leicestershire’s beautiful parks or a cosy film night can be just as special — and totally waste‑free.

This year, share the love without the rubbish. Small choices add up — and a low‑waste Valentine’s Day is one of the simplest ways to care for both your loved ones and the planet.