Like most gatherings, parties often end with large garbage bags filled with plastic cups, leftover food, discarded supplies, or paper plates. A good party doesn’t need to come with a pile of trash. Instead, one can host a zero-waste gathering, devoid of pretty plastic decor and packaging, as an extra step in protecting one’s environment. The goal here is to reduce the amount of waste while still keeping things fun, warm, and welcoming.
Whether it’s a birthday, backyard dinner, or holiday event, there are various simple and practical ways to reduce the environmental impact of any gathering.
1) Send Digital Invitations
If not saved as keepsakes, most paper invites have the same fate—they may be discarded after the event, contributing to landfill waste. Switching to digital invites through email or social media will help prevent this. Digital invites are the first step to eco-conscious party planning. And if it’s a small, intimate gathering, a simple text invite would work just as well.
If printed invites are an unavoidable factor, try to print them on recycled paper. Even seed paper is a good alternative as it will give a unique touch to the invites and make them memorable. Furthermore, the guests can reuse the paper by planting it.
2) Reusable Cutlery Over Disposables
A sustainable party does not involve plastic or paper plates or other single-use cutlery. It is a mindfully planned event that calls for cloth napkins, metal spoons and forks, and reusable ceramic plates. When running short on these supplies, ask friends and family to borrow some. Alternatively, find local event suppliers to rent from.
If reusables aren’t an option, look for compostable items made from bamboo, palm leaves, or recycled paper. But it is important to note that these would end up becoming waste if there is no composting bin to dispose of these single-use supplies afterwards.
3) Decorate Eco-Consciously
Balloons, glitter, and cheap plastic decorations are a firm no when planning a zero-waste party. Instead, stick to reusable or compostable decorations. Potted plants, fruit displays, seasonal branches, or fabric banners can make for a tasteful party decor kit. One can even reuse old glass jars as candle holders.
People who have an eye for craft can upcycle things like newspapers, old fabric scraps, or leftover ribbons. After the event, store these decorations for future use or share them with someone who is planning a zero-waste party.
4) Design a Low-Waste Menu
Party planners must avoid overbuying food to reduce waste and save money. Order food strictly based on the number of RSVPs to ensure there’s enough food for guests without overspending. Choose a buffet instead of a la carte, as it allows people to pick what they want. Stick to finger foods or dishes that don’t need plastic packaging or extra utensils.
It is also a more sustainable choice to use local, seasonal ingredients when possible. When ordering in or catering, ask vendors to skip extra napkins, straws, or cutlery.
5) Set Up Waste Stations
This step will make it easier for guests to sort and properly dispose of their waste. Bins meant for composting waste must be labeled clearly to help the guests easily notice them. If unsure, add a list of Disposables to each bin to let people know what goes where. Try to have a different disposal station for food scraps and returnable bottles.
6) Cut Down on Party Favors
Instead of giving out trinkets as party favors, think of useful or edible gifts. Small jars of jam, homemade cookies, seed packets, or herb cuttings are good alternatives. That said, it is also alright to skip favors entirely.
If giving something out, wrap it in compostable or reusable materials. Think of cloth, newspaper, or glass jars instead of plastic bags or single-use gift wraps.
7) Go Plastic-Free With Entertainment
Games and fun don’t need to contribute to landfill waste. Skip activities that rely on balloons, glow sticks, or plastic prizes. Try board games, music playlists, storytelling, or scavenger hunts for outdoor parties. Crafts that involve natural or recycled items like cardboard, colored paper, or fabric scraps can be a great way to engage children.
8) Communicate the Intent
Despite meticulous planning, it is possible to fail at throwing a zero-waste party, especially if the guests haven’t been informed about the nature of the event. Let the guests know the gathering is a zero-waste event. Keep the tone light and positive. People are not expecting perfection; just bring them along on the journey to be more mindful of the environment. When people know what to expect, they’ll come prepared. Some might even surprise the host with their own cutlery, containers, and innovative ideas to spruce up the event. Moreover, it might inspire guests to make eco-friendly choices when hosting events.
That said, it is crucial to plan for leftovers. Sometimes, despite portion planning, there will be leftovers at the end of the event. It is important to have a proper strategy in place to prevent food waste. Encourage guests to bring containers so they can take some home. The host can also keep clean jars or boxes on hand for this. If there’s a lot of food left, consider donating it to a community fridge or local food shelter.