With so many things to think about when organizing an event, it may seem complicated or overwhelming to add the additional layer of making it “green.” However, with a little thought and consideration, you can easily minimize the impact of your event on the environment and encourage others to do the same!

As you plan for upcoming gatherings, consider these simple tips to make your party more sustainable and eco-friendly.

STAY INFORMED

Not sure what can be composted at the Transfer Station? Unsure if an item can be recycled? Many resources are available on our website.

Eco Friendly Practices

Save & Reuse Decorations
Rather than purchasing decor to use once and throw out, invest in decor pieces that can be used multiple times throughout the year or for annual events you host each year. Better yet, skip the decorations entirely and opt for seasonal flowers or greenery for your event.

Opt for Fabric
Avoid single-use plastic tablecloths and paper napkins. Using fabric tablecloths and napkins elevates your event and reduces waste. Plus, these items can be reused multiple times, saving you money and time in the long run.

Make a Beverage Station
Create a self-serve beverage station rather than purchasing individual cans, bottles, or juice boxes. Provide a large dispenser of things like water or lemonade to keep guests refreshed while avoiding single-use waste. You can also use those large dispensers to make batched cocktails or mocktails!

Compost/Recycle/Trash
Set up well-directed waste receptacles for your guests to encourage them to separate items for proper disposal.

  • Trash: All other items including plastic plates and cutlery, straws, styrofoam, balloons, wrapping paper and ribbons, etc. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out!
  • Recycle: Items suitable for single-stream recycling (aluminum cans, plastic bottles, cardboard, glass, etc.)
  • Compost: Food scraps and paper napkins used with food.

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BORROW INSTEAD OF BUY: Don’t have what you need? Consider sharing circle of hospitality items with friends and neighbors so that you can borrow what you don’t have on hand.

What to Avoid

Disposable Party Ware
Use tableware that can be washed and reused for your get together. Don’t worry about having uniform or matching plates, mugs, cups, and flatware; functionality is most important. If anything, avoid plastic straws and utensils that aren’t recyclable and are an environmental hazard. Important note: Food service items (plates, cups, cutlery) labeled as “compostable” are not accepted in the food scrap recycling bins at the Westport Transfer Station; these items can only be composted if your private hauler will accept them.

Balloons & Glitter
Skip balloons and glitter (including items coated in glitter) altogether. These items cannot be recycled and take hundreds, if not thousands of years to decompose. They also contribute to significant plastic and microplastic pollution, particularly in our waterways and oceans, which is dangerous and harmful to wildlife.

Goody Bags/Plastic Gifts
Most common plastic giveaways CANNOT be recycled. Plastic necklaces, mechanical pencils, rubber bracelets, sunglasses, etc., are all TRASH. Instead of plastic toys and trinkets, consider books, coloring books, or a donation to a charity instead.

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USE PROPANE FOR GRILLING: Propane is dramatically more efficient than charcoal in its production and considerably more efficient in cooking. A typical two-hour charcoal grilling session emits as much carbon dioxide as driving a car for about 26 miles! When purchasing a propane tank, make sure there is a trade-in option.

Take Steps to Prevent Food Waste

Did you know that reducing food waste is one of the most impactful ways for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint?

  • Plan Ahead
    Overbuying food for events is a common problem. Before you shop, create a list to prevent over-purchasing or impulse buys. While making your list, be sure to check your cabinets for items you might already have on hand. If your guests will be bringing dishes to share, be sure to coordinate carefully to ensure you don’t duplicate efforts.
  • Repurpose or Compost Scraps
    Save meat and vegetable food scraps for future cooking. Most importantly, don’t throw food scraps in the garbage. Check out our resources on composting at home, via the transfer station, or through a residential service here.
  • Make a Plan for Leftovers
    Although you might be exhausted at the end of your gathering, take the time to properly store your leftovers in the fridge or freezer. If you plan to send guests home with leftovers, have plenty of containers available for them to fill up and take home.
  • Consider Vegan/Vegetarian Dishes
    While serving vegan or vegetarian dishes won’t necessarily result in less food waste, reducing the amount of meat you serve is more sustainable. Meat production is responsible for generating about 14.5% of total global greenhouse gas emissions and requires massive amounts of resources like water and land.
  • Donate
    If you are working with a licensed food service provider, you may consider connecting them in advance with Food Rescue US to coordinate a food rescue from your event.