Keeping Holiday Parties Green
Dec 01, 2024 06:00AM ● By Kristy Mayer
Although the holidays are a season of joy, an estimated 2.9 billion
pounds of extra trash is generated each year from items such as wrapping
paper, food waste, packaging, returns and decorations. Let’s make this
holiday season a time to remember that sustainability and fun can go
hand in hand.
Send digital invitations.
Save paper and reduce waste by embracing the digital era and sending
electronic invitations. Online platforms offer stylish and customizable
options for spreading holiday cheer while minimizing the environmental
impact.
Choose sustainable decorations.
Instead of buying disposable party decorations, opt for reusable and
eco-friendly alternatives. Consider using natural elements, such as pine
cones, branches and leaves, to create a rustic and festive atmosphere.
Repurpose items from around the home, like mason jars or old wine
bottles, and turn them into beautiful candle holders or festive
centerpieces.
Wrap differently. Landfills
add 2.3 million pounds of wrapping paper every year. Consider reusing
old gift wrap or upcycling newspaper, maps or magazine pages. For a
longer lasting option, invest in cloth wrappings. Remember to throw
wrapping paper in the recycling bin as long as it doesn’t contain
metallic, glitter or velvet elements.
Choose local and seasonal ingredients.
By opting for locally sourced, organic produce, we support local
farmers and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance
transportation. Additionally, selecting ingredients that are in season
ensures freshness and flavor.
Embrace sustainable tableware.
Ditch the disposable plastic plates and cutlery and choose
biodegradable or compostable alternatives. If there isn’t enough regular
tableware for each guest, mix and match or borrow some from a
neighbor.
Conserve energy. Turn down the
thermostat a few degrees to save energy. If it’s chilly outside,
encourage guests to bring their own sweaters or blankets. Make use of
natural light during the day and switch to energy-efficient LED light
bulbs when the sun goes down.
Prepare a zero-waste menu.
Plan the holiday menu carefully to avoid over-purchasing or
overcooking. Ask guests to bring reusable containers for leftovers,
which can be transformed into delicious new dishes or donated to food
banks to help those in need.
Compost.
Instead of throwing food scraps into the trash, composting reduces
landfill waste and creates nutrient-rich soil. Be sure to provide
clearly marked recycling and compost bins to make it easy for guests to
dispose of their waste properly.
Give sustainable party favors.
Instead of traditional party favors that often go unused or end up in
the trash, consider giving guests eco-friendly gifts. Reusable BPA-free
water bottles, organic seeds or handmade products from local artisans
will spread guilt-free cheer. Not only are these gifts more meaningful,
they also serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainability.
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