It seems like we're in the middle of a major gift giving season.  Christmas is hardly a memory, and now we're getting closer to Valentine's Day.  There are constant commercials for chocolates, flowers and jewelry.  If you're shopping for a gift to give your special someone this Valentine's Day, we're here to give you some  tips to make it green.

First off, keep it simple.  One gift that has a lot of thought put into it is better than 10 gifts that you've hardly thought about.  Consolidating your present into just one present is also greener, since you're cutting down on external packaging and shipping, as well as paper to wrap it.

Next, buy locally.  You can find gifts that were either locally grown, brewed or produced, and that can cut down the carbon footprint of your gift.  Instead of Hershey's chocolate and a generic red wine from a grocery store, buy locally made chocolate and wine.  It's better if you can also get those items organic.  Most Co-Ops have selection of locally made treats and drinks that will keep you in a romantic mood.

Another tip is to think about longevity.  Instead of buying flowers that have been cut and arranged, buy flowers that are in pots or could be planted.  They'll last longer than the standard week, and will be a more constant reminder of the feeling behind the gift.  If you're giving this gift to someone with no green thumb, don't worry.  There are a lot of plants that take little maintenance, like aloe and cacti.

Above all, limit the waste.  Just because you're showing love to someone special doesn't mean that you can stop showing love to the planet.  Landfills are littered with leftover chocolate boxes, dead flowers, and empty wine bottles.  That isn't the way anyone would want to show their love.