The 4th of July is a time to celebrate the birthplace of America, but like many other holidays, it often gets over-commercialized in an unsustainable way. But what could be more patriotic than taking the best care of our beautiful country and the people who live in it?
This article suggests ways to celebrate the 4th of July in a healthier and eco-friendlier way.
Choose Partyware Wisely
Disposable plates, cups, and utensils may be convenient but they are a terrible choice if you care about the environment. As an alternative, consider using dishware that can be washed and reused, or at least choose disposable items that have been made with recycled materials.
Try Greener Firework Options
Setting off fireworks at home or going to see the town’s fireworks display is an annual tradition for many people. However, most types of fireworks are far from eco-friendly because they contribute to air pollution and leave chemicals behind in the soil from their debris. Fun alternatives to fireworks include laser light shows, light projector displays, floating lanterns, and solar-powered LED lights. If you must go to a fireworks celebration, plan to carpool with as many people as possible to reduce carbon emissions from the drive.
Serve Healthier Food Options
Instead of burgers, hot dogs, and chips, there are many other delicious foods that you can serve at a 4th of July barbecue instead. Meatless barbecue recipes can help you lessen your environmental impact and provide your guests with healthier options to eat. Examples to try include black bean burgers, brown rice bowls with tofu, and colorful red and blue berries for dessert. There are also creative ways to sneak some vegetables into your side dishes, including carrots, broccoli, and celery. Then at the end of the day, you can compost leftover food waste to put it to good use.
Decorate with Reusable Decorations
Instead of buying brand-new, throw-away decorations for the 4th of July, consider repurposing decorations from other holidays and using items you already have around the house instead. For example, you could hang white Christmas lights around your patio for a festive touch to your backyard barbecue. You can also make centerpieces and displays with flowers from your garden and fresh foods, such as watermelon.
Get Active with Outdoor Games
It’s easy to enjoy a lazy summer’s afternoon on the 4th of July while you eat your favorite celebratory foods and have a few beers. But one way to make your celebrating a little healthier is to get up and active by playing a few games. Yard games are fun to play at backyard barbecues and picnics at the park, such as beanbag toss, bocce ball, badminton, or football.
What is your favorite way to celebrate the 4th of July? Please share your ideas and tips with us in the comment section below.