Cleaning
We all go into cleaning frenzies before hosting a party. Be extra good to your guests by using nontoxic cleaning supplies. I have written about a homemade air freshener recipe, and there will be many more natural cleaning posts coming in the new year. One unbelievably simple cleaner is just 1 cup white vinegar to 1 gallon of water. This solution cleans and kills bacteria. Also, I love using Norwex products. If you haven't heard of this company, please check them out! Their purpose is to be environmentally friendly, chemical-free, and incredibly effective at cleaning.
A full 25% of energy used in America goes toward food. "Each food item in a typical American meal has traveled an average of 1,500 miles to reach your plate," according to Green Christmas. Buying food that is in season and locally grown will cut down on transportation needs for your food. Serve organic wines, locally brewed beer, organic juices, or natural sodas for drinks. Fill a pitcher with water that's been run through a filter instead of handing out bottled water. (P.S. - "Americans send about 38 billion water bottles a year to landfills. Considering the 1.5 million barrels of oil needed to make those bottles, the environmental impact of plastic bottle waste is truly staggering," from Green Blog)
Plastic cutlery, styrofoam cups, paper plates all get used once and are then thrown into the garbage. This is a huge contributing factor to waste piling up in the landfills. Not to mention the oil, energy, and transportation required to make all those disposables. Using real plates, silverware, drinking glasses, and cloth napkins will make a real difference. Trade a few soapy minutes to avoid needless waste.
How do you green up your holiday parties?
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