Top Ten Ways to Host an Eco-Friendly Party

Happy Diwali! This holiday is celebrated by Indian communities worldwide in honor of the triumph of good over evil. Diwali recognizes Lord Rama’s return to the kingdom of Ayodhya after his defeat of the evil demon Ravana. Diwali lasts five days, hosting the most prominent ceremonies and festivities today. There are many ways to incorporate eco-friendliness into celebrations of any kind, including, of course, Diwali. Here is a list of our “Top Ten Ways to Host an Eco-Friendly Party” that you can use for reference today or any day moving forward. Enjoy!

1. Be mindful of plates and cutlery. Depending on the size of your party, you may be able to provide reusable utensils and plates – perhaps even setting out the dishes you regularly use! But if you are hosting a larger party, consider purchasing compostable options (and figure out how to compost them ahead of time). You might also visit a secondhand store or check out Goodwill’s online Tableware and Kitchenware selection; not only will stylish plates brighten up your party, but they also can make unique party favors!
2. Upcycle old items for decorations. Instead of buying single-use decorations, break out the hot glue gun and crafting scissors for some homemade decor. Pinterest was practically made for this challenge, and you can start with this board for inspiration.

3. Feed your guests well. If feasible, forgo the cheap bags of chips and deli meats and give your guests sustainably sourced food that emphasizes fresh fruits and veggies. Here are 35 Vegetarian Finger Foods to get your guests drooling.
4. Give gifts that uplift. If feasible, forgo the cheap bags of chips and deli meats and give your guests sustainably sourced food that emphasizes fresh fruits and veggies. Here are 35 Vegetarian Finger Foods to get your guests drooling.
5. Bake cupcakes in eco-friendly liners. Companies are listening to consumers’ desires for more eco-friendly baking ware that actually stands up to the moisture and heat of the oven. If You Care is one such brand that offers non-toxic, compostable cupcake liners.
6. Send guests home with leftovers. We are all about reducing food waste, and besides, who wouldn’t want to keep munching on your delicious food after the party officially ends? Take it a step further and ask your guests to bring reusable containers with them to reduce single-use plastic waste as well.

7. Limit light pollution. If you are hosting an evening party, shut your blinds and close your curtains once dusk starts to settle. This will limit unnecessary light pollution that disrupts wildlife behavior and impedes the work of astronomers. You can follow this rule every night, party or no party. Learn more about light pollution here.
8. Limit noise pollution. The same logic applies here. When the rest of the world starts to quiet down, so should you. Take the party indoors and save your neighbors (human and animal) from the loud tunes and chatter. This will help them maintain healthy circadian rhythms.
9. Ditch the balloons. Used balloons can turn into litter, especially when they inadvertently float away and travel hundreds or thousands of miles – potentially to remote habitats. Additionally, ribbons and strings attached to balloons can choke and entangle wildlife. Note that Mylar® balloons are particularly problematic because they are non-biodegradable.
10. Set out a recycling bin. In addition to a trash bin, you will need a recycling bin for your guests to dispose of their waste properly. Consider taping on a sign that explains to guests what you can and cannot recycle in your area.

Happy partying!