Host Sustainably: Tips for Throwing an Eco-Friendly Party on a Budget
Throwing a memorable party doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense—or cost a fortune. With a little creativity and a focus on sustainability, you can host an eco-friendly gathering that’s as kind to your wallet as it is to the environment. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a birthday bash, or a casual dinner with friends, here are practical tips to make your event greener, cleaner, and just as fun.
1. Choose Reusables or Compostable Alternatives
One of the easiest ways to reduce waste is by skipping single-use plastic. If you have reusable dishware and utensils, use those. For larger gatherings, opt for home-compostable options like Dirtbag Goods’ straws or compostable plates and cutlery.
budget tip:
Shop secondhand for affordable reusable plates and glasses or check out rental services for tableware.
2. Plan a Low-Waste Menu
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During my time living in Denmark, I fell in love with the concept of Fællesspisning, which translates to “community dining.” This practice isn’t just about eating together—it’s about everyone contributing to the meal. Whether it’s prepping ingredients, bringing a dish, or cleaning up, the communal effort reduces waste and makes the process more meaningful.
Here’s how you can create a low-waste menu inspired by Fællesspisning:
- Go Seasonal and Local: Choose ingredients that are in season to cut down on transportation emissions and packaging waste.
- Encourage Guest Contributions: Ask guests to bring their favorite dish or ingredient to share, creating a collaborative and intentional dining experience.
- Serve Family-Style: Ditch individually plated meals in favor of shared dishes, reducing food waste.
budget tip:
Buy in bulk to minimize packaging and save money.
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3. Create a DIY Composting Station
Set up a clearly labeled composting station for guests to dispose of food scraps and compostable items. Include signage that explains what can and cannot be composted.
What to Include:
- A bin for compostable waste (food scraps, Dirtbag Goods straws).
- A separate bin for recyclables and trash.
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budget tip:
Shop secondhand for affordable reusable plates and glasses or check out rental services for tableware.
4. Rethink Decorations
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When I lived in Denmark on a tight budget, I discovered one of the easiest (and free!) ways to decorate a table: go outside and grab something from nature. Branches, pinecones, and even a few leaves from a nearby tree can make your table look festive without costing a dime.
Eco-Friendly Decoration Ideas:
- Use greenery and branches as centerpieces.
- Collect pinecones or small stones for table settings.
- Repurpose jars or bottles as candleholders.
budget tip:
Skip store-bought decorations altogether—nature provides everything you need.
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5. Ditch Bottled Drinks
Avoid single-use plastic bottles by serving drinks in pitchers or dispensers. For alcoholic beverages, consider local breweries or wineries to cut down on transportation emissions.
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pro tip:
Pair your drinks with Dirtbag Goods’ compostable straws for a sustainable touch.
budget tip:
Offer a signature punch or cocktail—it’s cheaper and reduces packaging waste.
6. Send Digital Invitations
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Skip the paper invites and go digital with email or apps like Evite. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also saves money on printing and postage.
7. Make Cleanup Easy and Sustainable
Set up separate bins for compost, recycling, and trash to make post-party cleanup a breeze. Encourage guests to help sort their waste, and save leftovers to avoid food waste.
budget tip:
Use washable cloth napkins instead of paper ones for an elegant, eco-friendly alternative.
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Hosting sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing style or breaking the bank. With small changes—like using home-compostable products, embracing the communal dining ethos of Fællesspisning, and decorating with natural elements—you can throw a party that’s fun for your guests and kind to the planet.
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