Saying goodbye to summer doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to sustainability. As fall approaches, it’s time for one last hurrah with an eco-responsible Labor Day weekend.
Here are 7 tips to help you make your Labor Day celebrations more sustainable:
1. Help clean up after the parade
Join the cleanup efforts after the Labor Day parade to reduce litter and waste in your city.
2. Avoid disposable party ware
Opt for reusable cups, dishes, and utensils instead of disposable ones to reduce party waste.
3. Upcycle your decorations and displays
Instead of buying new decorations, upcycle items you already have to minimize your carbon footprint.
4. Grill responsibly
If you’re grilling, consider alternative fuel options to reduce your environmental impact.
5. Don’t crank the AC
Keep your air conditioning at a moderate temperature to conserve energy and reduce emissions.
6. Carpool or use alternative transportation
Reduce your fuel consumption by carpooling, biking, walking, or taking public transportation to your Labor Day destination.
7. Recycle and compost
Make recycling and composting easy for your guests by providing clearly marked bins at your party.
Ultimately, the key to an eco-friendly Labor Day is to consume less. By making small changes to your celebration, you can have a positive impact on the environment without sacrificing the fun and excitement of the holiday.
Feature photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Editor’s note: Originally published on September 1, 2017, this article was updated in August 2024.
