The production and shipping of a box of chocolates, the
electricity at your favorite restaurant, and travel to and from a romantic
dinner can have the same environmental impact as driving over 3,000 miles. This
Valentine’s Day, consider doing something special for Mother Earth as well as
that special someone – after all, what’s more romantic than making the world a
nicer place to live for the ones you love? With a few simple tips from
green-living expert Michelle Kaufmann, everyone can enjoy a greener Valentine’s
Day:
- Seek
out locally-produced, organic roses, chocolates or other gifts: Reduce
your carbon footprint, support your local economy, and give something
unique that represents your neighborhood
- Neutralize
your Valentine’s consumption: Purchase carbon offsets to match your output
(especially if shopping local isn’t an option) – one metric ton will cover
most traditional Valentine’s celebrations. More details about carbon
offsets and an easy-to-use carbon calculator can be found at http://blog.michellekaufmann.com/carbon-calc.html
- Give
back together: Find a place to volunteer with that special someone, or
make a joint contribution to a local charity – you’ll have a rewarding
experience with each other, and reap the joy of helping others
More easy ideas for greener, healthier living can be found
on Michelle’s blog at http://blog.michellekaufmann.com
Michelle Kaufmann is
the founder of mkStudios, a collection of media properties, lifestyle products,
and local events designed to inspire individuals, families and communities to
create and enjoy healthy, Earth-friendly lifestyles. In 2002, Michelle created
mkDesigns, an award-winning leader in prefabricated housing, and established
herself as a tireless advocate and knowledgeable source for conscious living.
Six years later, Michelle founded mkStudios after watching clients, friends,
and family struggle to find tangible, realistic ways to improve their
relationships with the environment.
