Green Your Valentine's Day: Date Ideas

On Valentine's Day, don't forget to extend your love to Mother Earth. This week's tips should help you do just that, even as you celebrate the biggest Hallmark holiday there is.

Tip #2: Plan a great date. 

Research shows that giving an experience, not a thing, makes people happier in the long run. Good thing that's the greener way to go too: A hike, a treatment at an organic spa, or a local camping trip won't create nearly as much waste as some objects (producing one gold ring can generate 20 tons of mining waste).

When making restaurant reservations, look for an eatery that uses local, seasonal, and organic ingredients and lists lots of vegetarian menu options. For bonus eco-points, take public transit or ride your bikes there. Or just stay in! There's something supremely romantic about a homemade dinner paired with a nice organic wine and candlelight — remember: soy candles last longer than paraffin and emit 90% less soot.

Tell us: What are you planning for your sweetheart this Valentine's Day?