Green entertaining: stylish, affordable and responsible

Entertaining doesn’t have to be boring or unstylish. In fact, we can strive to throw a party that is both creative and environmentally responsible.

Stuffing plastic plates, discarded invitations and leftover food into big black garbage bags is always the most guilt-inducing part of entertaining. Simply plan ahead and put in a little extra effort.

Here are some environmentally friendly suggestions to consider for your next big celebration.
[B] 1. Go green with your theme[/B]

You probably already have some knick knacks on hand, so take stock in what you and your party assistants (friends) already have. You’d be amazed at the creativity everyday things can be transformed to spectacular décor.
[B] 2. You’re invited![/B]

Instead of traditional mailed invitations, consider less formal alternatives. Contact your friends over the phone or through e-mail or text message. If you prefer sending out invitations, use cardstock made of recycled paper.

As the organizer of the party, you’ll know best who is coming from where. Where possible, arrange carpools for people who live in the same village.

Buying local products reduces the energy spent on refrigeration and transportation. It’s also a good idea to buy in-season produce.

If you’ll be catering, provide the caterers with your own reusable serving dishes instead of using disposable aluminum or Styrofoam containers. You’ll also have less waste at the end of the party and less waste means less time cleaning up.

If you are grilling, use natural charcoal or propane. Not only is the natural version free of harmful chemicals added to many charcoals, but many products are sustainably harvested.

Use traditional plates and flatware instead of disposable plastic plates. For a fun twist, try using pieces of licorice instead of straws. Instead of using plastic corncob holders, cut sturdy twigs from your tree and use a pencil sharpener to make the ends pointy.

If you think imaginatively, you can craft some unconventional but inspiring finishing touches.

Find it tough to find the just-right temperature when you’re entertaining? Before your guests arrive, turn the temperature down a few notches in winter. As more and more guests arrive, the room’s temperature will rise and you won’t have guests sneaking out to the front porch in search of fresh air.

If you’re planning for an outdoor soiree, you’ve already reduced your carbon footprint.
[B] 7. Switch your lights[/B]

Trade your old incandescent lights for energy-efficient LED decorative lights. The bright lights, which are available in a range of colors, use 95 per cent less energy than conventional lights and last 10 times longer.

In addition to candles, another option for outdoor lighting is using solar-powered tiki torches or lanterns. These are now available for purchase on island at select hardware/department stores.
[B] 8. Gifts and party favors[/B]

For a child’s birthday party, fill a brown paper bag with small candies, riddles, and joke books.

For adults, bring a potted plant or a consumable gift that you know the recipient will actually use, such as candles, chocolates, homemade cookies, or passes for a movie. Besides being practical, consumable gifts reduce clutter.
[B] 9. Recycle [/B]

Remember that aluminum cans are recycled more efficiently than plastic. Have a separate bin or bag for recyclables and ensure guests know not to toss recyclable materials.
[B] 10. Compost the leftovers[/B]

If you buy conservatively, you shouldn’t end up with excess food at the end of the night, but sometimes, estimating proper amounts of food can be difficult. If you do end up with a mass of leftovers, create take-home packages for guests who will be sure to appreciate them. Leftovers that spoil can be composted and used in your garden.

Source [I]http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/consumers/eco-entertaining.html[/I]