Jennifer is on the Editorial Team at One Green Planet. She earned her Masters Degree... Jennifer is on the Editorial Team at One Green Planet. She earned her Masters Degree in City and Regional Planning from UNC Chapel Hill before moving to Boulder, Colorado in 2006. During the first part of her career, Jennifer worked as a pedestrian and bicycle planner and project manager. As a long-time vegan and competitive distance runner, Jennifer strives to provide a positive example of healthy and sustainable living. Read more about Jennifer Valentine Read More
Spring has sprung in most parts of the nation, and it’s a great time for a picnic!
Picnics are a fantastic way to get out and appreciate our natural surroundings. But let’s make sure we’re preserving, protecting and respecting the great outdoors while we’re enjoying all it has to offer.
We’ve all heard the slogan: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! But have you ever thought about what it truly means?
The most eco-friendly option is always to use what you already have. But if you are in the market for a picnic basket, tablecloth, or portable utensils, there are some awesome, sustainably produced items available.
Who needs plastic utensils, paper napkins, and single use straws, not to mention a health- and planet-compromising menu? Especially when there are so many alternatives that are sustainable, healthy and FUN! So start planning that eco-friendly picnic. This guide is here to help.
Eco-Friendly Vegan Picnic Guide
| Picnic Baskets: If one-stop shopping is your thing, these eco-friendly picnic basket sets are a great option. |
|
| Utensils and Straws: An estimated 40 billion plastic utensils are used every year in the U.S. alone! Even more shocking: 500 million disposable plastic straws are used every day! The majority of these items are thrown out after just one use. |
|
| Plates and Drinking: Bringing plates and cups from home is the greenest option. If you need something more portable, try dishes made from lightweight bamboo, cork, coconut or palm, and stainless steel water bottles. |
|
| Linens: Cloth napkins and tablecloths are not only greener than their paper or plastic counterparts – they also add softness and style to any picnic or gathering! |
|
| The Food: Cancer-causing sausages and red meat, E. coli-laced chicken, meat glue, and pink slime are not invited to this picnic. Plant-based picnic fare is healthy, eco-friendly and delicious! |
|
| Miscellaneous: Depending on your picnic plans, you may also want to bring insect repellent, a blanket, and grilling supplies. |
|
Image Credit: houndstooth4/Flickr
Get your favorite articles delivered right to your inbox! Sign up for daily news from OneGreenPlanet.
Help keep One Green Planet free and independent! Together we can ensure our platform remains a hub for empowering ideas committed to fighting for a sustainable, healthy, and compassionate world. Please support us in keeping our mission strong.
Comments: