Going green for Thanksgiving is a great way to kick off the holiday season. Eco-friendly planning and preparing will save you time, energy, and money. Create a more sustainable Thanksgiving tradition with these simple, fun, and green ideas.
Here are 17 tips to go green for Thanksgiving:
Prepare the menu:
1. Create a menu using local and seasonal produce.
2. Go veggie! Host a vegetarian Thanksgiving to reduce your food-based carbon footprint impact.
3. If you must have turkey, choose a free-range, organic, heritage turkey.
4. Host a potluck dinner.
5. Use slow cooker recipes for more energy-efficient cooking.
Plan your shopping trip:
6. Prepare a well-thought out shopping list.
7. Bring plenty of reusable shopping bags.
8. Shop at local farmers' markets as well as traditional grocery stores.
9. Follow a planned route of travel.
10. Carpool with family and neighbors.
Prepare your home:
11. Clean with non-toxic cleaners such as baking soda and water.
12. Light some candles to save energy and create a warm, festive ambience. Use unscented beeswax or soy candles.
13. Use live plants or herb bouquets, like lavender or rosemary, for centerpieces. Decorate with pumpkins, gourds, pine cones, acorns, and fall fruits.
14. Use real dinnerware, glassware, utensils, and fabric napkins.
15. Turn down the thermostat. Extra people and a hot oven will provide additional heat to your home.
16. Set up a recycling center for guests.
17. Compost, donate, or freeze leftovers.
Save money, reduce waste, and celebrate a happy, healthy, and green Thanksgiving.
Find more green Thanksgiving tips here.
If you have a favorite green tip for Thanksgiving, please leave a comment below!
