1. Cut down on paper and use technology. Email invitations or call people to invite them to your party. If you do want formal invitations then considered using recycled paper since it uses less resources to produce. There are some terrific invites out there made from handmade paper or hemp fibre.
2. Rent to reduce. If you’re having a really large gathering such as a family reunion or a wedding then consider renting your glasses, dishes and cutlery. Local caterers will often include place settings, tablecloths, cloth napkins, decorations, coolers and more in the cost of the rental. There will be dishes to wash but think of the garbage saved.
3. If you do need to go disposable then make sure everything is biodegradable. That means no plastic, Styrofoam or foil. There are lots of options available, including disposable dishes made out of sugar, bamboo, potato or corn starch that will decompose overtime. Look for paper napkins that are at least 80 percent post-consumer recycled paper that are naturally brown or bleached. Buy in bulk to minimize excess packaging, and opt for products packaged in recycled and recyclable containers. Seventh Generation sells some great green paper products. Read more about the available products in Keeping your plate green.
4. Organize the transportation to reduce driving. If you have out of town guests coming then look into renting a bus. It reduces pollution, saves your guests from getting lost of finding parking and you’ll have a designated driver. If there is public transportation to your event then include the train and bus schedules. Ask someone to be in charge of car pooling or ride sharing and help guests hook up with each other.
5. Decorate with LED lights or solar lights on the patio and walkways. Natural soy or beeswax candles can create a terrific ambience and smell wonderful. Check out all the different patio lights in our article Light up your patio with the sun. Find out more about enviro-friendly candles in our article Shedding light on polluting candles.
If you want to have music consider hiring a local band or check out renting a portable solar generator. Companies like Solar One in Pickering rent out 1100-watt solar generator for events.
6. Choose organic décor. Support the organic flower industry and buy flowers with the VeriFlora certification. Use potted flowers or plants as centrepieces that can be recycled as thank-you gifts. If you are giving out party favours then give gifts that will last such as handmade soaps, organic chocolates, silk handkerchiefs or blends of wildflower seeds.
7. Serve locally grown and if you can go organic food even better. Plan your menu around what’s in season and you’ll save money but also end up with a deliciously fresh menu. Serve finger food so you don’t need plastic plates and cutlery. Veggie dips, fruit and cheese are also great party food. Serve local wine or organic wines that don't use harmful chemicals. If available, pick up some organic liquor as well. Read more about organic spirits in our article Green your holiday toasts.
8. Outdoor pests can ruin an event but don’t resort to spraying with chemicals to keep uninvited guests away. There are some terrific new sprays on the market that are organic, leave no smell and keep mosquitoes, black flies and houseflies away.
9. Set up recycling areas so people know where to put their cans, bottles and recyclables. Dedicate a garbage can for the task that is clearly labelled. Not only will it make it easier to clean up, you’ll be reducing your garbage.
10. Cleanup with biodegradable cleaning supplies that are healthy. Who needs to be exposed to toxic chemicals after a night of partying? Send your guests home with leftover food or arrange to send it to a local shelter so it doesn’t go to waste. Arrange for food waste to be composted and recycled whatever is possible. If you’ve followed all the suggestions listed above you should you’re your garbage reduced significantly.
Remember to relax and have fun. Going green is a gradual process and if this is your first green party then do the best you can.
Shelagh McNally is the editor of Green Living Online.
