There are 85.4 million mothers in the United States, according to the latest update released from the U.S. Census Bureau.
According to the National Retail Foundation, 86 percent of Americans will celebrate Mother's Day this year, with spending expected to reach $23.1 billion.
With this predicted amount of spending, the amount of waste produced by the wrapping, packaging, and other trimmings will likely be enormous. Consider Mother Nature when searching for the perfect gift for your mom this Mother's Day. Below is a list of ideas that will satisfy mom and help protect our environment:
1. Give Your Time
Instead of buying your mom a gift, volunteer to run some errands for her or do chores she may need done around the house. She will appreciate this just as much, if not more, than any tangible gift!
2. Recycled/E-Cards
There are many alternatives to the usual paper greeting card (that are eventually tossed out). You can make a card out of your own recycled materials, purchase a card from an eco-friendly company, or send an e-card to reduce paper waste.
3. Make a Donation
Make a donation to Planet Aid or another organization in her honor. If you donate to Planet Aid, we will send her a special notification. To make a donation, click here. If you don't want to give a monetary donation, you can also donate supplies to local charities in need, like animal shelters or the local soup kitchen.
4. Potted Plants
Cut flowers that you get from the store or florist can be costly and usually don't last more than a week. This year, considering buying a potted plant for your mom or seedlings that will last much longer and will help the environment by producing oxygen for the air.
Anything Helps!
These alternatives may not seem like they'd help the environment that much, but you'd be amazed to see how much of a difference can be made by just a few people chipping in and opting for these type of gifts instead of the usual paper cards, cut flowers, and chocolate, all items which contribute to harming our planet.
Feel free to come up with your own eco-friendly gifts and share with your friends and family!