Waste Prevention Tips For
Your 4th of July Party

When planning your Independence Day party, be sure to remember these great waste prevention tips:

1. Use reusable plates, flatware, glasses, tablecloths and linens, or rent them rather than buying new ones. If you must use paper goods and plates make sure that they're made from recycled content.
   
2. Make sure you have a recycling system for aluminum cans, as well as plastic and glass bottles set up for your party. Show your caterers, helpers and guests where to put items and demonstrate to them that you care about the environment!
   
3. Use washable pans instead of disposables for cooking. It's much cheaper to buy a roasting pan than to purchase foil pans all year long.
   
4. Buy fresh, unpackaged foods when possible. Buying in bulk saves packaging. Just remember buy only what you think you'll need.
   
5. Plan meals wisely and send guests home with leftovers or donate them to food banks rather than throw food out.
   
6. Take photos with a standard or digital camera, not a disposable one.
   *Did you know that purchasing film in rolls of 36 instead of 12 reduces waste by 67 percent and can save you up to 40 percent? 
   
   Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Revised June 17, 2008