Sustainable Partying

Like many of you, we recently hosted a graduation party for our high school senior. We wanted to provide homemade food and serve it to approximately 60 guests without contributing unnecessary garbage to the local landfill.

The menu was all-American: brats and buns, chicken wings, potato salad, fruit salad, baked beans, bulgur pilaf, chips, hummus, cheese dip, etc. We served dinner on regular dishes and used normal stainless tableware. (Yes, we had to borrow to accumulate enough.) We always use cloth napkins at our house and have acquired a good pile of them, mostly homemade. All beverages were served in their recyclable cans or bottles.

At the end of the evening, we were pleased that our garbage cans were no more crowded than usual. When corporate America wants you to think that you'll need disposable plates, cups, napkins and tableware for your next party, don't believe it!