Experts pointed out that even if our Valentine’s Day presents make us feel warm inside, they do the same with the
environment,
as the production of these goodies increases our CO2 emissions. For chocolate, the so called carbon footprint occurs both in agriculture and transport. Chocolate is made of two ingredients: the seeds of the cacao tree and cocoa butter. From the cocoon field to the factory lots of harmful materials are used, including pesticides, stabilizers, flavourings, fertilizers and other chemicals. Most of the flowers we can buy at shops are imported from other countries, even from Africa. The transportation of these – either by ship or plane – greatly increases our greenhouse gas emissions.
A great piece of advice is to look for certified food and flowers. For example Veriflora is an accepted and trusted seal for flowers and plants. In addition you should buy locally produced food and buy seeds or potted plants to decrease your CO2 emissions and stop global warming.