10 Surprising Tips for Hosting an Eco-Friendly Holiday Party

Planning a festive gathering but wanting to give back to the planet, too? Here’s how to host a soirée that celebrates sustainability without compromising on the cheer.

You’re probably well versed in the standard advice on how to have a sustainable party, (decorations a la Mother Nature, skip the plastic, etc.) but here are ten unique things you can do to host an environmentally conscious holiday gathering that’s as festive as it is green.

1. Go Meatless

Even if it isn’t a Monday: Consider vegetarian or vegan options like our Mini Vegetarian Tourtiere, Green Goddess Sandwiches with Zero-Waste Kale Pesto, or Nerigoma Nanaimo Bars.

2. Local, Organic, Sustainable

It may be common knowledge, but it bears repeating: Source menu ingredients locally and prioritize organic and sustainably grown foods.

PRO TIP
Every hostess knows the more food you can prepare ahead of time, the better. Often, washing and storing lettuces and herbs in advance can mean they may spoil by the time you need them (further adding to our food waste issues). Wrapping the leaves in an absorbent towel, like Bonterra’s sustainably focused paper towels, and storing them in an airtight container can help wick away moisture and prevent rotting, giving you some time back in your holiday meal prep.

3. Dispose Mindfully

Have guests take out the trash: Set up recycling and compost stations (and ensure bins are properly separated and labelled).

Read More

PRO TIP

Remember, small changes can make a big difference in reducing waste and conserving resources – especially if everyone joins the party. Others learn just by seeing, so go beyond your holiday entertaining spaces and ensure your whole house reflects your eco-friendly spirit. Stocking your kitchen and powder rooms with recycled paper products, like Bonterra toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues, is the gift that keeps on giving back to the environment for years to come.

4. RSVP Digitally

Digital invitations set the tone: Social media has come a long way; email is the norm and almost everyone can create an online event page. (It also allows for easy updates, RSVP tracking and making notes on guests dietary restrictions, allergies, etc.)

5. Real-or-Fake Debate

The debate continues, so until there is a clear frontrunner, here are some ground rules: If you buy an artificial tree, ensure it is made with eco-friendly materials and take good care of it so you can use it for as many years as possible (or donate it for someone else to enjoy).

Those opting for a fresh-cut tree, make sure it’s sustainably sourced, avoid long car rides  to pick it up and dispose of it responsibly (i.e., have it turned to mulch). Potted evergreens work, too, but if you plan to plant it, ensure it has a root ball that is native to your area.

6. Loving Leftovers

Ask guests to bring their own take-home containers. (Trust us, the initial awkwardness will quickly pass.)

7. Eco-Friendly Party Favours

Consider showing your appreciation to guests with seed packets, reusable shopping bags, or homemade treats. Mini gardening pots make for tiny but charming, reusable gift wrapping.

8. Go (Safely) Light-Free

Use Energy Star-qualified LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights or better yet, go (safely) light-free: candles, the starry night sky, and reflective ornaments and menorahs provide electricity-free holiday cheer.

9. Switch Up Your Annual Theme and Try One of These Instead

  • Ugly Sweater Party = Ugly Sweater Swap Party
  • Potluck Party = Food Drive Party
  • Secret Santa = Charity of Choice
  • Ornament Swap = Clothing Swap
  • Cookie Exchange = DIY Gift Wrapping Party

PRO TIP
Create the perfect party atmosphere: Place a drop of a sustainable essential oil on individual sheets of Bonterra’s soft and sustainably focused facial tissue and fold them neatly. Arrange them in a festive vessel (like a gift-wrapped tissue box holder!) or place on a pretty plate for all guests – those with or without the sniffles – to enjoy.

10. ‘I Said No Gifts’

In lieu of host or Secret Santa gifts, kindly ask your guests (or post it on your digital invite) to bring an item for one of these suggestions:

  • Donations for your charity of choice
  • Hard-to-recycle items like old batteries and LED lights (and offer to recycle these for them)
  • A cookbook for leftovers or a reusable carry-out containers
  • Gift certificates to local museums, concerts, restaurants, theaters, etc.
  • Edible or hand-made gifts

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This