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Zero Waste
Tips to Hosting a Zero Waste (or less wasteful) Party
Hosting a party doesn’t have to be wasteful! You can make your party glorious and green, and even potentially save a few dollars! Below are ten tips to plan a ‘zero-waste’ party:
- Plan in advance: It is proven that planning ahead can save you money and support more ‘green’ or sustainable plans. For example, if you are rushing you are more likely to pick ‘single-use’ or disposable options.
- E-invite: Skip the paper invites by sending out e-invites; and save the trees!
- Avoid single-wrap and save: Buy food in bulk to be greener! For example, don’t buy single wrapped cheeses, buy a block and cut it to avoid all the plastic wrap; saving you money too!
- Keep it reusable: Use reusable cutlery, plates, napkins and tablecloths; avoid single-use plastics.
- Decorate Organically: Use flowers, herbs, vines, or produce for decorations instead of plastic junk. When the party is over, you can compost, eat or place these out for yard waste collection.
- Keep it simple: The key to reducing food waste is to keep it simple. Serve finger foods and avoid the utensils and
- Green waste area: A natural part of any party is waste. Set-up a disposal area that properly supports the separation of items. For example, set-out a red box for drink containers to avoid these going in the garbage.
- Bring your own doggie bag: If you are planning a big dinner have guests bring a ‘take home’ container – so they leave with the leftovers and food is not wasted!
- Replenish: Instead of putting all the food out (e.g. chips) at once and it going bad–place a portion of food and top up as needed.
- Party Favours: Ditch plastic ‘favours’ and send guests home with baked goods, jams, or chocolates. Consumable ‘gifts’ are not only delicious but support zero waste as well!