Celebrating Valentine's Day can use a huge amount of the earth's resources from trees cut down for cards to carbon emissions for transportation and pesticide laden roses.

But there are plenty of ways to make green the new red this season of love.

Every year in the UK around 12 million Valentine cards are sent to nearest and dearest, secret admirers or both.

There are a diverse array of ways to say 'I love you' without creating waste and still be extra thoughtful.

And why not avoid all those over packaged useless gifts that seem like a good idea at the time and go for something more environmentally friendly.

The top tips for a green Valentine's Day include:

? Get up to date and green by sending an e-card or text message to the one you love.

? If technology is not your thing, then send a card you made or support a local artist who hand makes cards from recycled materials - and don't forget to recycle it afterwards too.

? Remember that over packaged cards are so last year - less is more.

? If you're going to buy something as well, then find the perfect gift for your loved one that is good for the environment too - why not be traditional and buy flowers - you can compost the lot, even the paper they get wrapped in.

? Or even better, buy locally grown plants and flowers or perhaps even ones planted in a pot so they keep on growing after February 14.

? Chocolates are always a winner, but why not indulgence with a conscience and give organic or Fair Trade chocolates to your loved one.