FEBRUARY 14 is, for many, a day dedicating to showing your loved ones just how much you care. This often comes in the form of buying them presents, like a box of chocolates or flowers.

However, the packaging of these products can damage the environment. Somerset Waste Partnership urges you to think carefully about ways you can show your Valentine you care without harming the planet.

Vouchers for experiences, such as meals out, make great presents to be shared together without contributing to Somerset’s 'cardboard mountain.'

If you do want to get a physical present, small independent businesses tend to avoid the excess packaging that you often see with big retailers.

Councillor Sarah Dyke, chair of the Somerset Waste Board, said: “Think about ways to avoid waste in the first place – recycling is great but reducing is even better if you want to show your love for the environment.”