With looming COVID restrictions, it's time to get creative with your entertainment. With limitations on gatherings, rolling closures of indoor and outdoor spaces and all the stresses associated with it, it's safe to say that life during the pandemic has been no picnic. As the light at the end of the tunnel gets brighter, it may be a great time to get out and enjoy the sunlight. A picnic can be a great way to have fun and get some fresh air in a safe way. Here's how to enjoy an eco-friendly picnic.
What to eat
Tasty food is essential for any good picnic. As you plan your picnic menu, keep a few things in mind. Locally-grown food doesn't have to travel far before it makes it into your sustainably-sourced picnic basket. This cuts down on your carbon footprint and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Local and organic is even better, as the food won't be treated with as many chemicals and pesticides – which can be harmful to our health and our environment.
What to pack
Once you have your locally-grown food prepared, you need to decide what else to pack and how to pack it. This means avoiding paper napkins, plastic water bottles and disposable packaging. There are lots of good alternatives. Choose reusable cloth napkins or recycled paper napkins. Pack your sandwiches in reusable containers, and load your potato salad, fresh salad and basically everything else into glass containers. Save money and the environment by bringing your chosen beverages in reusable water bottles. A thermos will keep your coffee hot, so don't forget one so you can avoid getting one to-go in a disposable paper cup.
What to take home
Everything. The goal of a good eco-friendly picnic is not only to enjoy the outdoors, but to leave only your literal footprints behind – not your carbon footprint. Make sure to take any trash or recyclables home with you, or find an appropriate disposal bin.
We hope these tips for how to picnic the green way helps you enjoy the great outdoors while staying green.
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