New Year's Eve is a time for revelry. Too often however, the prevalence of parties, gatherings, concerts, parades and other festivities on this last night of the year can mean excess, waste and a reckless use of resources. The start of the New Year is a moment at which many people make positive resolutions to change their lifestyles for the better. Begin the new year right by thinking of the earth. Plan a New Year's Eve party that reduces, reuses and recycles so your conscience is clear and the planet is cleaner.
Green Transportation
Hosting a party? Ask guests to share rides to save gas and the air quality. Make sure that the driver is planning not to drink. If going to an event downtown, there's usually all night free public transportation available on buses and subways. Walking, if it's not too cold, is also a good bet to get to the event of the year.
Green Party Supplies
Borrow from friends and neighbours to make the party a collaborative occasion. People can bring plates, utensils, chairs and other items required to suit the number of invited guests. Washing up doesn't take that long if several individuals help out. There are also party supply stores where one can rent all these items at a reasonable cost.
Now there is also a terrific resource called The Biodegradable Store where people can purchase plates, cups, bowls and other utensils made from sugarcane, an annually renewable plant. There are additionally party supplies made from corn. Both types of dishware compost within several months. They can be used in the microwave and for both hot and cold meals.
Christmas decorations are re-used year after year. Why not New Year's items like horns, whistles, hats and other festive accouterments? If one purchases these goods at a quality store from durable materials they will last and can be passed down to one's children.
Light the party with candles or with LED green bulbs. Use recycled paper for confetti or compostable rice.
New Year's Green Feasts and Treats
Think about the earth when planning what to feed guests. Choose organic, whole grain and healthy options. Buy locally where possible. People often cook too much food on New Year's Eve. With the socializing and drinking, partiers can eat less than usual. Making a few appetizers or snacks for the number of guests one has invited is usually better than providing a full, multi-course dinner. Leftovers get wasted. Also look to local breweries/wineries for the alcoholic beverages. Organic coffees and teas can also be provided.
Make little recycled paper goody bags for guests from candies or chocolates that were saved from Christmas as well as any small gifts that are new and reusable. Preserve the earth in the New Year by starting the night before.
Catherine Owen - Catherine Owen, MA 2001, has published ten award winning books of poetry/prose. Her writing is lyrical, well-researched and fully ...
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