Eco-Friendly Independence Day
July 4th in America - a time for picnics, parades, and, of course, fireworks. Celebrations like these can be such a fun time, but it can also be easy to overlook that savvy sustainable lifestyle you work so hard at all of the other days of the year. That is why we are sharing some of our top tips on how you can make this Independence Day eco-friendly.
Skip the single-use
This one is a no-brainer. After all, we here at 24 Savvy have written a time or two about the harmful impacts single-use plastic has on the environment (check out this article in particular on straws). And although disposable service items are super convenient if you’re hosting a gathering, it really can add up to all of the pollution in our waterways and oceans. Good news though is there are a lot of different options!
Use traditional silverware and flatware if possible, or ask your guests to BYO plates/silverware/cups.
Use biodegradable options.
Pack food in convenient, reusable containers, like eco-friendly tupperware or mason jars.
Use cloth napkins.
Be a rockstar recycler
If you can’t always find the above options and you find single use unavoidable in some cases (for example, if some of your guests aren’t as savvy as you yet), put that recycling knowledge to use! Check your local recycling rules, make sure to follow them, and also inform your guests on what those regulations are as well. Way to spread that savviness around!
Make it meatless
In our Meatless Mondays article, we shared with you why consuming less meat is the savvy, sustainable thing to do. If you want to keep your celebrations as eco-friendly as possible, try reducing, or skipping altogether, the amount of meat you consume and serve. Don’t fret though, that doesn’t have to mean your holiday needs to be any less delicious. We love these recipes from Taste of Home because there are so many options and you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Choose charcoal alternatives
Charcoal grills emit greenhouse gasses like carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide. So if you are grilling, try one of these more environmentally friendly alternative grills instead:
Natural gas/propane
Electric
Solar powered
Forego the fireworks
We know, we know… fireworks are a tradition on the 4th. However, they really can be detrimental to the environment. According to National Geographic, smoke released from firework shows can have a comparable impact on air pollution and health issues as a wildfire. Furthermore, the “propellants, colorants, and heavy metals in fireworks can end up in the soil or waterways, polluting our drinking water or the ocean” (foodrevolution.org). Luckily, there are alternatives to traditional fireworks you can use that will still light up your night without all of the noxious gasses being released into the atmosphere. Some of our favorites:
Laser shows
Project an old or new fireworks show (bring the incredible Macy’s show to you!)
Do you already have environmentally friendly 4th of July traditions? Let us know in the comments!
Have fun and stay safe all 🎆
