DEC Issues Tips for a Sustainable 4th of July Celebration

Ditch Single Use Items!

• As a host
  • Replace single-use cutlery, cups, and plates with reusable options
  • Skip the straw or provide reusable ones
  • Reuse or shop second-hand for decor instead of purchasing new decorations
  • “Know Before You Throw” – Check your local recycling guidelines before putting items in the recycling bin.
  • Sustainability is cool! Choose reusable coolers over single-use ones to keep cold food and drinks cool while you (and your drinks!) chill.
  • Redeem some money. Set up a bin or bag for guests to place their redeemable cans and bottles.
• As a guest
  • Bring your own reusable mugs/bottles
  • If you must use single-use cups, write your name on your cup to keep better track of it and ultimately reduce waste

• •  Traveling with a cooler? Choose reusable coolers over single-use use to keep cold food and drinks cool while you (and your drinks!) chill.
• Ask the host where you can place your empty can or bottle.

Buy in Bulk!

• Buy food and supplies in bulk to reduce packaging waste (Don’t forget those reusable shopping bags!)

Build Local Soils

• Explore composting food scraps (corn cobs, watermelon rinds, vegetable peels, etc.) in your own backyard!
• Drop off food scraps from your 4th of July celebration at a local food scraps drop-off location. Always check with your food scraps drop-off location on what they can and cannot accept.

Reduce Litter

• Summertime parties are plenty of fun, but be mindful of what you leave behind. Practice leave no trace. Litter harms the environment and surrounding plant and wildlife. Common litter left behind includes food wrappers, chip bags and drink containers.

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