Hosting a Super Sustainable Party
The Big Game is coming up, and whether you are tailgating, staying indoors, watching the teams play, or just in it for the commercials, we have some super sustainable tips for you!
Obviously the snack bowl is the real star of the party. Some snacks are only sold in plastic packaging (like many chips), but try to reduce plastic as much as possible by buying bulk or avoiding pre-made trays in unnecessary wrapping. If you use your reusable produce bags to shop for your own variety of vegetables, you can make a veggie tray in no time with just a little bit of chopping and a dip of your choice. If you want to get fancy, you can even experiment with a charcuterie board by arranging finger foods in an easy football shape or choosing foods in your team’s favorite colors. You’ll get compliments, save money, and reduce waste all at once.
You can also save on paper waste by using reusable or compostable dishes and non-paper towels. If you are outside, reuse a plastic bag laying around or bring a tote to collect the used items to later throw in your compost, dishwasher, or washing machine (and if composting, collect the food waste too). You can even bring a basket of non-paper towels or other reusable items with fun football designs as a gift to the host. Non-paper towels can be used during the party as napkins, after the party for cleanup, or during the sad commercials to dab away tears.
As any athlete will tell you, hydration is key. If you are partying in your home, it’s easy to avoid plastic by just using normal glasses for guests’ drinks, but if you are outside of the home, consider buying drinks sold in aluminum cans and providing a bin to recycle the empties, as aluminum is infinitely recyclable. Better yet, try bringing water or other homemade drinks in gallons or in multi-gallon drink dispensers and packing lightweight reusable cups. There is of course, always the sustainable option of buying a keg of something for adult guests as well.
Staying sustainable may seem like a challenge, but with a good plan and the right team behind you, you can have a great party while helping the planet, a win for everyone!