Summer is the perfect time to practice going green if you aren’t already.
The warmer weather and choice of fresh fruits and vegetables lend to festive outdoor dining and impromptu picnics. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a lavish dinner party for friends, there are a number of simple things you can do to reduce your eco-footprint and impress your guests!
Here are a few tips for eco-dining:
Plan your event wisely. Use Evite, Facebook or email to get the word out rather than using hard copy invitations.
Reduce gas consumption. Compile your locally sourced shopping list in advance to avoid extra trips and wasted gas. Encourage your guests to carpool.
Say no to disposables! Set your table with reusable tableware.
Use bamboo cutlery.
Use BPA Free bottles.
Set the mood with soy candles. They burn cleaner and are made of renewable ingredients.
Use cloth napkins, dish towels, tablecloths and runners. Look to nature for earth-friendly table decorations.
Buy local wherever possible. Where you shop for your food is important. Choose natural or organic foods. Support farmer’s markets.
Minimize processing and packaging with foods. Select fruits and vegetables individually. It gives you greater quality control and eliminates Styrofoam and plastic packaging.
Use reusable shopping bags and totes. Keep them in your car so you’ll always have them handy. They can be folded and stored in your glove compartment.
Keep a clean mug or two in your car for take-out beverages. Every cup counts!
Clean up green. Recycle properly. Compost scraps. Buy a small bin to keep on your kitchen counter.
Send your tips to sharad@go-green.ae