Robin Laub, a Life Stylist

Earth Day Celebration 

For when parties will be a “thing” again, here’s how to throw a zero waste get-together in celebration of Earth Day. 

 

Don’t even think about single-use plastics. 

Instead, use your fun and fashionable plates, glassware and flatware. Earth Day bonus: save some water and hand-wash them afterward (lotion up afterward to avoid dish-pan hands ha!). A party is always nicer when you use the “real” thing. I’m not much of a paper plate gal. Ha! Don’t forget to use nice cotton or linen napkins with cute napkin rings or even tie ribbon around them. You can also use chic cotton hemlock cocktail napkins for serving drinks. Because, what do I always say? Presentation is key! 

 

Save the scraps. 

You can easily create a useful compost can for all of your party food scraps. Also, make sure to check to see if your county has compost bins such as your garbage, yard debris and recycling bins and use those. If you need to keep your compost indoors, mix coffee grounds in it so those caramelized onions don’t smell up your place. And If you don’t have anywhere to throw your compost, donate it to your local school or farm. I grew up having an outdoor compost pile and we used it as mulch for our garden. One of my new year’s resolutions is to get better at saving scraps and recycling them wisely. Zero waste note: keep all of your bins in one area for garbage, recycling and food scraps for your guests to easily find. Maybe you’ll even inspire them to start their own! Don’t know how to start a compost can? Just Ask! 

 

Try and contain yourself. 

For party leftovers, stock up on reusable containers. Try avoiding the use of plastic wrap, aluminum foil, and baggies. Have extras on hand to give to your guests to take home, or ask them to bring their own.

 

Now, start planning a fun party while you’re stuck at home so you’ll be ready to get together ASAP. 

 

Stay healthy!