Commentary

A Valentine's Day Gift That Lasts Forever

Answer: diamonds, plastic and spoof ads. Question: What three things last forever?

It's easy to mock the iconic "A diamond is forever" ad campaign from De Beers, especially around Valentine's Day. An eco-friendly organization has done just that.

"Plastic Love" is a 60-second video set to romantic music and clichéd shots of ocean waves, a flock of birds and a couple taking a romantic walk on the beach.

"This Valentine's Day, give her a gift that will last forever," says the film. The next scene shows the man hugging his girlfriend and then breaking away to present to her with a long, black velvet box.

Does it hold a diamond bracelet or necklace? Better. A white plastic fork, the kind most commonly included with takeout orders. The recipient is overjoyed with her gift, and the video ends with the couple sharing a kiss as the sun flashes behind them. "Plastic is forever. Please make your next order Eco-To-Go," says the ad, seen here.

The video was created last year and uploaded prior to Christmas. It was recently tweaked to reflect Valentine's Day.

The Cricket Club of New York created the videos for Ecoagents, a non-profit organization behind the Eco-To-Go program.

The concept is simple. When ordering takeout, ask participating restaurants to make your order Eco-To-Go, meaning food will be delivered minus unnecessary items such as plastic utensils and napkins.

The program has already been implemented in participating New York City restaurants, with additional cities to follow.

According to Ecoagents, it takes more than 1,000 years for a plastic fork to decompose, which means the debate over whether a diamond or plastic fork lasts longer remains close.

2 comments about "A Valentine's Day Gift That Lasts Forever".
Check to receive email when comments are posted.
  1. Janis Mccabe from jmod35, February 9, 2009 at 10:25 p.m.

    I may be totally wrong, but isn't recycled plastic what makes all our fleece clothing? Although, even if I'm right in imagining that, there surely is altogether too much plastic.

    I personally don't ever know what to do with those take-out pieces. I don't use them. I think about saving them for a picnic (now I have pieces from 5 years back still hanging around), but then I still have to get rid of them eventually.

  2. albertus Van wyk, March 26, 2009 at 4:46 a.m.

    I'ts a small step, worths being mentionned ,idealistic but not verry credible in practice!Aenorsmedia at:...............
    http://www.aenors.com
    artcore

Next story loading loading..