Dating is the time you get to spend with your loved one, like going to the movies or a fancy dinner.
But, over the past century, human consumption, population, global trade, and urbanisation have all developed very quickly. As a result, people are now using more of the Earth’s resources than it can naturally regenerate.
There is no doubt that human beings are responsible for these issues. And because we, the people, have the power to change or damage the world around us, we also have control over it.
With that in mind, even the small changes in our lifestyles can have an impact on the world around us. Making your date more eco-friendly can, for example, be an interesting starting point.
Below are five ideas for spending time with your loved ones while being environmentally conscious!
A Saturday picnic with zero-waste
You can’t go wrong with a picnic. Saturday afternoons under the trees in the late summer sun can be especially intimate when shared with loved ones, making you look like a lovey-dovey couple in a very instagrammable setting.
But how can you make your picnic zero-waste? Is that even possible?
Well, being zero-waste can be very simple. It basically means being responsible enough to bring everything yourself, from cloth napkins and reusable straws and food containers to totes and dishes.
Go Hiking and Stargazing
Exploring the outdoors with your loved one is a great way to learn about the beauty of nature while also getting exercise, whether the hike lasts the entire day or just a few hours.
Hiking not only improves our overall health and fitness, but it also prolongues our lives and improves quality of life. It is not a sprint to the finish line, but rather a low-impact activity that allows you to enjoy your date and the beauty of nature.
After a long day of trekking, make sure to take a moment to look up at the night sky and embrace the stars!
Try Gardening
Gardening can be a very unique way to spend your eco-friendly date.
When you plant something together, it might be a tangible representation or symbol of your relationship’s development and growth. Seeds for your garden are also a great gift for you and your date.
If you live in a big city, planting a potted plant can be very helpful: It helps to cultivate more green space and reduces your stress level, improving mental health and well-being.
Farmer’s market shopping and cooking together
By buying things at a farmer’s market, you not only benefit from getting the freshest food and ingredients, but you also help the local community. Once you get home, you can cook meals together with your date and create a romantic setting to dine in.
In addition, cooking at home makes it less likely to contract COVID-19 and is more environmentally friendly as it involves no takeout boxes, less travel, and less waste.
Go to a Museum or an Art gallery
Going to a museum or a small art gallery is also a good idea for an eco-friendly date, giving you a change to both observe artwork and support local artists and community.
Taking public transportation or walking to your favourite museum can help to reduce your transportation footprint. And on your way back, you can reminisce about the day’s events and engage in a deep and meaningful conversation inspired by the art you saw.
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by Impakter.com columnists are their own, not those of Impakter.com – In the Featured Photo: A romantic picnic dates Photo credit: Pikist.
