by The Cowl Editor on February 7, 2019
Eco Updates
by Maddie Stephen ’21 and Payton Morse ’20
Eco Representatives
Valentine’s Day is a beautiful day for couples, family, and friends to show their love and appreciation for one another. This is frequently expressed through Hallmark cards, flowers, or chocolates.
However, most of the cards and flowers get thrown away and the chocolate goes uneaten. In fact, 65 percent of the cards given on Valentine’s Day end up in the trash.
This year, try having a “green” Valentine’s Day! Rather than splurging on an expensive card, make a homemade one. Look around the house for scrap paper and old pictures. This gives the card more meaning and a personal touch.
If creativity isn’t your thing, look in the store for cards that say, “made from recycled materials.” This prevents the exploitation of resources.
Furthermore, approximately $2.1 billion are spent on flowers every year. Consider recycling the flowers you received. There are easy ways to make flower perfume or potpourri at home. Just do a simple Google search for instructions. If that doesn’t interest you, bring your flowers to a nursing home or hospice center.
Despite being a bit old, the flowers will be much appreciated by those receiving them, will help cheer them up, and put a smile on their faces.
This year, spend quality time with your loved ones, a gift that lasts forever. Take your date on a hike, enjoy the fresh air, and make memories that will last longer than a card, flowers, or your box of chocolates (it will save you calories too)!