Have a Green Ole’ Time

July 20, 2010

We hear all about the latest hybrid automobile technology and how ways you can reduce your energy consumption at home with solar panels and Energy Star products, but what about every day events? Going green involves more than just the big, life-changing events.  Your day to day consumer choices have an enormous impact on the environment, and it’s easy and cheap to buy more eco-friendly products.  Next time you’re planning a little get together or even a huge bash consider these simple ways to add a splash of green to your event.

If you’re going to send invitations to the party, there are hundreds of websites offering free e-cards.  Not only will you save paper, you’ll save money too.  Socializr, Purpletrail, and Evite all offer a variety of free cards and invitations with sound, pictures and animations.  If you’ve got friends or relatives who don’t go online very often, look for cards made from recycled material.

Another way to go green is with your plates and utensils.  Americans throw away unbelievable amounts of paper and plastic tableware every year.  If you’re hosting a small event, try to use washable items that can be used.  But, if it’s a big event and you have to go disposable, there are plenty of products made with recycled material.  And as always, make sure to recycle everything you can.  As simple as it is to throw something away in a different bin, sadly, many people won’t walk ten feet out of their way to dispose of trash in a recycling bin.  Make sure to set the bin right beside the trashcan with each one clearly marked so there are no excuses for unnecessary waste.

A final way to keep with the green trend is the food and drink you purchase.  Buying local, organic products helps local farmers and also reduces the CO2 emissions released in the transportation of goods from far away.  Even better, you don’t have to worry about the harmful effects that pesticides might be having on your body.

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