Guest Author - Terri Paajanen

Yet another gift-giving holiday is fast approaching. Take an environmental approach when choosing a Valentine's Day gift for your loved one. Don't worry, you don't have to buy energy-saving light bulbs or all-natural laundry soap. There are eco-alternatives for even the most traditional of romantic gifts.

Chocolates
Ah, my own personal favourite. Who can resist a gift of chocolate? Endangered Species Chocolate offers a variety of wildlife-themed chocolate bars, that are 100% organic. They also commit a portion of their profits to save endangered species. Green & Black carries a number of very luxurious chocolate bars made with organic and fair-trade ingredients. One last source for organic and fair-trade chocolate delights is Dagoba Chocolates.

Flowers
As much as I do love chocolate, my heart does melt when I get flowers. Many cut-flower sources indulge in heavy pesticide use to keep their crops in the best shape. Overseas sources often use chemicals that aren't even allowed here in North America. So, you might want to try getting organic cut flowers this year. Just as beautiful, and much kinder to the environment. Organic Bouquet will deliver their certified organic flowers anywhere in the USA, as will Manic Organics. Both these sites offer a large variety of bouquets and arrangements.

Jewelry
Jewelry isn't a particularly environmental kind of item, but one way to go green is to buy jewelry made from recycled materials. Abundant Earth has some lovely glass globe pendants and earrings that are not only made from recycled glass, they have a clear environmental look to them. Another place for very pretty recycled glass jewelry is Christy Fisher Studios. If you prefer more traditional gold pieces, visit Sumiche Jewelry for rings made from eco-gold and conflict-free diamonds.

For the Hard-to-Buy For
Well, you could always buy an acre of rainforest or adopt some African wildlife.