Are you throwing a New Year’s Eve celebration? If you’re striving to be more green, there’s no better time to start than now. Plus, you can show your friends and family the lifestyle changes that you’re making and encourage them to do the same. After all, no one will criticize you for being eco-friendly, so be creative, be daring and be fun – and no holding back!
To start, buy locally grown produce where you can. It is winter, so some areas may have more limited selections. Be sure to browse the supermarket or farmer’s market for ingredients that you can use in your foods, sticking with locally grown and USA grown where you can. And don’t think that you need to serve up a whole meal on this holiday. Snacks and appetizers are perfect for New Year’s celebrations and cut down on food waste.
You can use recyclable plates, cups and spoons for the occasion, so look for such terms as “biodegradable”, “sustainable” or “compostable” on the package. Most importantly, keep it simple. For decorations you can do the same. Steer clear of paper-based products that will just get tossed away at the end of the day. Use reusable materials or try decorating with food. If you must go for the easy disposable decorations, look for biodegradable crepe paper streamers, recycled coasters, carpet squares and more.
Get everyone in on the fun by inviting guests via email or an evite; a simple way to reach everyone, track RSVPs and eliminate paper waste and the high price of postage. Since guests are always looking to bring “something”, have everyone bring an organic wine. It will get everyone in the spirit of being green, plus you get to experiment with organic wines that are just as good – actually better – than regular wines.
You can also have everyone write down their green New Year’s resolutions on a recycled index card. Read them or make your guests guess what’s on the card as if you were playing Pictionary. Send your guests home with something fun such as a packet of seeds, a small plant, a stainless steel water bottle or set of recycled coasters. This year is supposed to bring great changes, so let this New Year’s be the starting point for a healthier, greener lifestyle for you, your family and your friends.
Image c/o: delish.com
Tags: eco-friendly, Eco-friendly choices, green, green choices, New Years, New Years Eve party, party
