Tips for a Red, White and GREEN 4th of July!
Ring in the red, white, and blue this Fourth of July with a little extra green! As we celebrate our nation’s independence, let’s not forget the importance of being kind to our planet. From reducing waste to grilling greener, there are many simple ways to make your Fourth of July celebration more eco-friendly. Read on to learn more:
Buy Local and Organic Food for the Festivities: Celebrate patriotism without worrying about pesticides by choosing locally grown and organic produce and meats. Buying local not only helps you make informed choices about what you eat, but also supports your community’s economy. By purchasing organic food, you can avoid less contamination, which means a safer planet for everyone.
Make Healthier Desserts at Home: Did someone say POPSICLES? Store bought cakes and cookies are great, but they’re often made with refined sugars and chemical dyes. They’re also wrapped in plastic, which is far less likely to be recycled. Uncle Matt’s Organic has several popsicle recipes and festive treats here(tagged popsicle recipes) that will keep you cool during the hot summer holiday!
Ditch Plastic Altogether: Take your eco-friendly party planning to the next level by swapping out traditional single-use plastics for biodegradable alternatives. Not only will you be doing the planet a favor, but you’ll also be treating your guests to a more sustainable and responsible celebration. The best part? These eco-friendly plates, cups, and utensils are just as afford able as their plastic counterparts, making it an easy decision for the environmentally conscious host.
Grill Greener: Did you know? Charcoal creates more greenhouse gases than any other grilling method around! Studies show unsavory things packed into charcoal, including heavy metals and charcoal production is a prime culprit behind deforestation in many tropical countries. Here are some eco-friendly options to consider that won’t sacrifice sustainability for flavor:
- Lump Charcoal: Made from pure wood, without any chemicals or additives, this option is as natural as it gets. Plus, many brands source their materials sustainably.
- Clean-Burning Fuels: Natural gas and propane are more efficient than charcoal, producing less CO2 per hour. They also use more of the material, making them an eco-friendlier choice.
- Electric Grills: Ditch fossil fuels and opt for a low-energy electric grill. It’s a guilt-free way to cook up a storm.
Watch Fireworks with Friends: Instead of hosting your own fireworks display, consider joining your neighbors and friends to enjoy one spectacular show put on by your local community. By doing so, you’ll not only reduce your environmental footprint but also foster a sense of community and connection with those around you. Plus, you’ll get to experience the excitement and joy of the fireworks without the added stress and expense of hosting your own show. It’s a win-win for everyone!
By greening up your Red, White and Blue celebrations, Join the movement to greenify our celebrations and make every 4th of July a symbol of freedom and sustainability for generations to come. By making eco-friendly choices, we can reduce our impact on the planet and ensure that our independence day traditions continue to thrive for centuries to come.
