It’s party time!  Lots of holiday get togethers will be held over the next few weeks.  Having a great party and being kind to the planet don’t have to be mutually exclusive.  Now some of these ideas might seem a little too far towards the green side for some party hosts, but any little thing will help.  These suggestions can really reduce the amount you have to throw away after the festivities:

    * Buy baking goods and snack food in bulk or large volumes.
    * Use reusable tableware; if you don’t have enough, ask to borrow reusable tableware from friends or family.
    * Rent dishes, napkins, cups and saucers, tablecloths and glasses instead of using expensive disposables.
    * Cut up last year’s holiday cards and use them as place cards.
    * Use outdated calendars taped together to make a unique New Year’s tablecloth.
    * Place easily identifiable recycling containers at your celebration so guests can recycle their pop cans, bottles, etc.
    * Encourage host or hostess to reuse and recycle bows, wrapping paper, cans, glass, etc.
    * Point out the ways your party demonstrates waste reduction and recycling, and SPREAD THE WORD!!!