Put more Green in this Years Christmas Party
- December 6, 2016
- 0 comments
- Bob Krell
- Posted in EnvironmentalSustainability
1. Go for the real tree!
It smells nicer, looks amazing (even those Charlie Brown ones have charm), and is peace of mind to the environmentally conscientious. According to a sustainability consulting firm out of Quebec Canada, that artificial Christmas tree may leave a carbon footprint up to 3 times larger than its natural variety, on average per year.
They were quoted as saying, “To put things into perspective, the emitted CO2 over the entire life cycle are approximately 3.1 kg (6.8 lbs) CO2 per year for the natural tree and 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs) CO2 per year for the artificial tree (48.3 kg [106.4 lbs] for its entire life span [of 6 years]).”
2. Can’t go real, go long-term!
If you just have to have that artificial tree, don’t worry, there are options. There are benefits of the artificial tree that we all understand. It’s ok, just use that tree for the next 20 years as it is the production stage that has the impact on the environment. Over the decades you will eventually make a smaller impact on the larger environment.
3. Go with the Compostable Napkins!
Don’t worry, there are festive eco-friendly napkins available! As tempting as it is to pick up those brightly colored snowmen napkins, all of those chlorine-based bleach, dyes and inks make those napkins impossible to compost. Take the time online to find the festive options or simply use natural of kraft colored napkins, or options that have been whitened with environmentally safe processes.
4. Recycle or Compost your Waste
We all know that recycling and composting are great ways to make an impact all year round, but in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can seem overwhelming. Make sure to compost, at least during your prep work. That’s often a lot of carrot tops, celery bottoms and/or onion skins right there.
If you’re using plastic cups for your guests, look to see that they’ve been made out of recycled materials. And leave out a special bin for your guests to place them in when they’re done; make it easy for them to help you make the greener choice.
5. If you’re Not using reusable tableware, make it compostable!
Not up to all those dishes? There is still an option; get compostable tableware too. On top of the convenience to you, now your guests can know where to put all of their used items. Compostable cups, plates, and even straws, can make it easy for your guests to put all of their items in a single bin. This will then make it easy for you to put all of that in one place too. Who doesn’t love easy when planning holiday get-togethers?
6. Encourage Your Guests to Ride Share
Ride sharing isn’t just good for those who want an extra eggnog or toddy, it’s great for the environment too. Choosing a few designated drivers can help your guests make a difference to each other and your eco-friendly goals.
See, having a holiday party that’s fun, easy, and eco-friendly just takes a few steps! Enjoy your holiday and feel confident in your choices.