Holidays are always a time of waste and plenty with raging parties and overflowing trash cans. This Thanksgiving, cut down on your carbon footprint and give thanks for greener options.
If Thanksgiving is at your house this year, consider the following:
Reduce paper waste by sending e-vites. At the party, further reduce paper waste by using cloth napkins and “real” dishes and silverware in place of plastic and paper and save the world from global warming.
Minimize your lights by dining before the sun goes down and using dimmers and candles (made of natural waxes) for a festive atmosphere.
Use real leaves that you collect from outside instead of plastic, artificial versions. If you’re big on decorating, buy pieces that will last, rather than paper decorations that will need to be tossed as soon as someone spills gravy on them.
Make sure that you provide a recycling bin in addition to the trash bag (preferably made of biodegradable plastic).
As for the food, buy local and organic foodstuffs, from yams to turkey. Try a sustainable brand of turkey, like Heritage. Check out your local natural foods store for more turkey. Also, make your dishes vegetarian, by subbing in vegetable or mushroom broth instead of trimmings.
Make it easy on yourself and have a potluck, and spread the green around by having your guests bring a sustainable dish as well.
And in the spirit of giving, give a little something to your local foodbank so that less fortunate families can feast as well. Local charities often offer Thanksgiving dinners and you can donate food and time to serve up a hot meal for the start of the holiday season.
When the guests go home, use natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and lemon juice or a green store-bought cleansing product to make your home sparkle.
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Tuesday, November 25, 2008
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