Picnic Recycling Tips
The summer weather entices everyone to spend more time outside. One of the most iconic Labor Day, or any summer day, activity is a picnic. This summer you can take simple steps to ensure your picnic is environmentally friendly. Thinking ahead can make a huge impact on our environment and your wallet. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when planning your next picnic.
How Much, How Many
Knowing the details of your picnic will allow you to pack the correct amount of food and goods. Knowing how many people to feed and how much food to pack will reduce wasted meals and reduce garbage.
Food Choices Can Reduce Waste
Instead of bringing individually packaged food, bring shareable meals. Some great shareable snacks include: large submarine sandwiches, family sized bags of chips, and even assorted fruits in Tupperware. Finger food is always a great picnic option. It’s more efficient and doesn’t require plastic utensils.
Reusable Containers
Place your food in a reusable picnic basket or a cooler. Baskets and containers make transporting your food simple while also helping the environment. Inside your picnic basket, put your snacks and entrees inside reusable containers so you can bring them home and use them again. It’s always a good idea to utilize a reusable water bottle to hold your drink as well. Reusable containers prevent you from having to find a garbage can to throw away any wrappers or empty bottles. They also prevent ants, bees and other unwanted guests from ruining your special meal.
Avoid Paper Plates and Napkins
A common misconception is that paper plates and napkins can always be recycled. After being contaminated with food, paper plates and napkins are usually soiled enough to no longer recyclable and need to be thrown in the garbage. Instead of disposables, bring cloth napkins and reusable plates as an environmentally friendly substitute.
Before your next picnic, use these tips to protect your wallet and more importantly protect our environment. Enjoy!