Tips for a More Eco-Friendly Memorial Day Celebration

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave people who have sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

While this holiday often involves gatherings, cookouts, and other celebrations, it’s also an opportunity to consider how we can make our festivities more eco-friendly. Here are some tips for hosting a sustainable Memorial Day celebration.

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Use eco-friendly decor

Many decorations are single-use, so look for decor that is reusable or sustainable in other ways. For example, use less plastic, and more natural materials, such as greenery, paper decor, or recycled decor.  There are some great felt Memorial Day decorations!

Choose Sustainable Food Options

As you plan your menu and shop for food, look for locally sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients whenever possible.

Visit farmers’ markets or local farms to purchase fresh produce, meats, and dairy products that support local agriculture and reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation.

Consider offering plant-based options or incorporating more vegetarian dishes to reduce the environmental impact of your meal.

Support Local

When you do your shopping, look for local businesses and small businesses to support.

Reduce Food Waste

Minimize food waste as much as possible. Plan your menu carefully, and plan for saving your leftovers.

Compost food scraps and any other organic waste to avoid landfills.

Zero-Waste Dishes & Utensils, No Single-Use Plastics

Instead of disposable plates, cups, and utensils, opt for reusable alternatives such as ceramic plates and glassware.

Avoid plastic straws, stirrers, and utensils, and opt for biodegradable straws, stainless steel straws, or other options.

As an alternative to reusable dishes, look for compostable plates or biodegradable products made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or sugarcane.

Minimize single-use plastics by using reusable or compostable alternatives for serving and storing food and beverages.

Use pitchers or dispensers for drinks instead of individual plastic bottles, and provide reusable cloth napkins instead of disposable paper napkins.

Try More Eco-Friendly Grilling Techniques

If you’re planning a cookout, consider the environmental impact of your grilling practices. Choose a charcoal grill made from sustainable materials or opt for a propane grill, which produces fewer emissions than traditional charcoal. Use natural lump charcoal or hardwood charcoal instead of briquettes, which may contain additives and chemicals.

Consider grilling vegetables and plant-based proteins alongside meat to reduce the overall environmental impact of your meal.

Energy-Efficiency

Look for ways to be more energy-efficient during your celebration.

Consider turning off unnecessary lights and appliances to conserve energy throughout the day.

Choose LED lights for both indoor and outdoor lighting.

By incorporating these eco-friendly tips into your Memorial Day celebration, you can honor the memory of fallen service members while also promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a community event, or spending time with loved ones, small actions can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable and meaningful holiday experience.