The COVID-19 pandemic kept most of us from getting together and having parties with friends for over a year. Now that vaccines are widely available and things are getting back to normal, many people are planning get-togethers again. But, having a party this summer (or any season!) should be about more than just having fun – especially if you’re trying to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
If you’re interested in a zero-waste lifestyle, it needs to impact everything you do – including how you party!
The Zero Waste International Alliance defines zero waste as ‘the conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health.’
So, how can you host a party that focuses on zero waste and zero energy? What are the benefits of doing so? Let’s cover a few tips that can make it possible, so you can inspire your party guests to adopt more zero waste and zero energy habits of their own.
Zero Waste From Prep to Presentation
The easiest way to go zero-waste is to think of how you can adapt and make changes to the more “traditional” aspects of a party. That includes things like:
- Invitations
- Decorations
- Tableware
- Gifts
- Food
- Activities
- Clean-Up
All of these things can be made “greener” and contribute no waste when they’re done with sustainability in mind, whether the party is for kids or adults. Invitations can be sent out electronically. That leaves no paper or plastic waste and will reduce carbon emissions since they don’t have to go through the postal system. Decorations, tableware, and even gifts can all be made from recycled materials that are also biodegradable/compostable. Nowadays, it’s easier to find those items than you might think.
And a party without food isn’t a party at all. Thankfully, you don’t have to go to a mega-store to get enough to feed your guests. Check out local farmers’ markets for fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread, and anything else you could possibly need for a great get-together. Donate any leftover food to shelters or food banks to keep it out of landfills. If you can’t, compost anything possible.
When it comes to cleaning up, make it easy on yourself by having recycling bins set up in different locations during the party. That will encourage everyone to do their part. Finish cleaning with natural products or homemade solutions in reusable bottles.
Saving Energy Without Sacrificing Fun
When you know the basics of zero-waste living, it’s easy to host a party that doesn’t create any garbage. But, what about a zero energy party? Is that possible?
Absolutely.
You can host an energy-efficient party by using a few different techniques. When it comes to food, try no-bake recipes or have a big bonfire in the evening and cook over an open flame. Having your party outside will also get rid of your dependency on air conditioning for your guests, so you won’t have to turn down your thermostat and waste energy.
One of the best things you can do to use natural energy at your party is to plan ahead and do a little prep work. Installing solar panels or windows in your house will give you the energy your home needs to “run” without wasting a nonrenewable resource.
Of course, the benefits of solar windows or panels go far beyond an evening get-together with friends. Making your house more energy-efficient and using less waste every day will make it easier to be party-ready. It will also help you to live a more sustainable lifestyle every day.
Making Your Home More Sustainable
What does that look like?
It starts with considering basic home initiatives you can take to lead a zero-waste and zero-energy lifestyle. Even making small changes can make a big difference. You can improve the energy efficiency in your home through changes like:
- Replacing toilet and sink fixtures
- Installing energy-efficient appliances
- Putting in new installation
- Sealing off any leaks or cracks in the home
Set goals for yourself to go zero-waste in every room of your house (and outside!). By taking things one step at a time, the process will seem less daunting. Set achievable goals, and you’ll be more motivated to continue whenever you reach them. Everything from purchasing recyclable products to long-lasting, durable furniture can make a difference in your sustainability efforts.
The benefits of a zero-waste lifestyle include better physical health, financial savings, and the reduction of land and water pollution. By doing as much as you can to go zero-waste and zero-energy, you’ll set an example for others. When you have a party and people see that it’s not impossible to be more sustainable, you can inspire them to do the same. That’s the kind of impact we need to change the current environmental state of the planet. Keep these ideas in mind for your next party, and you can feel good about everything you put together.