As you make your final plans for Easter Sunday brunch or dinner, we wanted to share some things you can do to make it a more eco-friendly affair:
Plan Ahead
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, planning menus in advance can limit waste. In addition to outlining foods you will prepare, also consider the number of guests you will be serving—this will make it easier to buy the correct amount of ingredients. Throwing an Easter brunch potluck? Don’t hesitate in being a little bossy when it comes to telling guests what to bring in order to avoid a table filled with multiple versions of deviled eggs.
Reuse, Reuse, Reuse
Even if you are serving a crowd, consider using reusable dinnerware or look for sustainable disposable options such as these. If you are purchasing new dinnerware, think small—using smaller plates will help your guests avoid overfilling their plates with excess food. With spring colors filling up our outdoor spaces, reuse the beauties of nature to decorate your home indoors as well.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
In addition to using energy-efficient bulbs for indoor and outdoor decorating, opt for a candle only dinner experience to decrease the amount of energy you are using. Use unscented candles to avoid competing with the delicious food scents and add candlelight to your outdoor space as well should evening fall during your festivities. We love these tin can luminaries on a porch or walkway.
Reuse Your Leftovers
Ask your guests to bring their own reusable containers for leftovers and have them throw food scraps into your compost pile. Remember that meat and dairy products should not be composted, so keep the kitchen scraps to things such as potatoes and green beans. Consider donating any unused canned goods or non-perishable items to a local food bank or homeless shelter, spring is not usually a time when folks think to donate. Click here for a list in NYC.
Click here for even more great ideas for having an eco-friendly Easter.
Talk to us: What will you be serving for Easter brunch this year?