Host and Eco-Friendly Gathering
SUSTAINABILITY
MAY '23
.01 Repurpose Home Decor
.02 Get an Accurate Head Count
.03 Avoid Disposable Anything
.04 Skip the Party Favors
One of the easiest ways to host a sustainable gathering is by using your own decorations instead of buying new ones. By reusing items you already have, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste generated by your event. Not only does this approach save money, but it also allows you to be creative and come up with unique and personalized decorations that reflect your personal style.
To reduce food waste, make sure you get an accurate head count prior to your event instead of making an educated guess. better yet, make it a potluck. That way, you ensure someone will like at least one dish and guests can bring their portion home as leftovers.
Even though it is possible to find a paper plate for any theme, they are mostly not able to be recycled due to the plastic coating. Instead, use the plates you already have (even if they do not go together). Extra mention - be sure to start the event with an empty dishwasher so guests can rinse and place their plate inside to avoid pile up.
If you prefer paper products, try to opt for compostable plates and utensils.
As fun as party favors are, they often end up being discarded after the event. Instead of spending money on these disposable treats, consider making a donation to a charity that aligns with the party theme using the same budget. For instance, if you're hosting a birthday party, let the honoree choose the charity to support. This way, you can make a positive impact and help those in need while still celebrating the occasion in a meaningful way.
