from the heart.

American and British consumers purchase approximately 9 billion greeting cards each year, enough to stretch around the world 54 times laid end-to-end. While some greeting card manufacturers try to use recycled paper and non-toxic ink, they are the exception. Most cards are produced using virgin paper, toxic printer inks and fixing agents. Add in the energy and fuel used to produce, ship and send cards plus the inevitable landfill clutter and suddenly Grandma’s birthday wishes seem more like hate mail. While electronic greeting cards may be the greenest option, nothing beats receiving personal letters from the postman. Consider reducing your impact by making your own cards! Does your boyfriend think Frosted Flakes are the perfect breakfast, lunch and dinner? Then make him a Valentine’s Day card from an empty box! If your best friend shops religiously at Abercrombie, turn a paper shopping bag into a card for her. Magazine ads, movie posters, advertising postcards, product wrappers and even old cards can have new life when you add some creativity and some nice words to them.