How to have a zero waste summer
Summer might be a great time to relax, but that doesn't mean you should relax your standards ofÌýsustainability. Here are some zero waste activities and tips to keep in mind.
- ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú´«Ã½ÎÄ»¯×÷Æ· the farmers market on WednesdaysÌýfrom 4-8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. to support local farmers and businesses and pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and more.
- Farmers markets are the perfect place to ditch your plastic grocery bags and try fresh and in-season fruits and vegetables.
- ±«²õ±ðÌýÌýto get around town,Ìýinstead of a car.
- If you can't get to theÌýfarmers market every week, consider the LongmontÌýSimply Bulk MarketÌýto buy everything you'll needÌýfor your picnics, barbeques, camping tripsÌýand more.
- Check outÌýÌýfor zero waste recipe ideas and trends.
- Summer is a great time to set up backyard composting. Check outÌýthis articleÌýby a fellow member of the zero waste team.
- Have your own zero waste picnic! Opt for reusable tupperware and silverware over single-use plastics.
- Plan a staycation.ÌýInstead of flying or driving, consider finding new attractions to visit around your town.Ìý
- Plan ahead with reusables and utensils for all the pit-stops you may make.Ìý
- Bring your own food to reduce packaging waste fromÌýfood you might purchase from a gas station or store.Ìý
- Mason jars are a summer staple! Bring someÌýalong to gather bulk food, make fresh squeezed lemonadeÌý´Ç°ùÌýstore food.
Zero waste activities
- Zero waste barbeques/grilling:
- Encourage your guests to bring reusable containers withÌýresealable lids to your cookout.
- Bring your own utensils or cups.
- Set up a compost area and recycling bin so friends and family can properly dispose of their waste.
- PlanÌýfood and appetizers around what items you already have in your kitchen;Ìýget creative with recipes!
- Zero waste day at the beach/reservoir/lake or tubing at the creek:
- Bring your own snacks in reusable containers, and reusable utensils.
- Clean up after yourself, and you can even pick up trash in the surrounding area.
- Pack a cooler.
- Take nothing, leave nothing.
- Use a reef-safe sunscreen.ÌýSome reef-safe sunscreen brands include:Ìý
- Thinksport
- Kokua Sun Care
- All Good
- Suntegrity
- Raw Elements
- Babo Botanicals
- Art of Sport
- And manyÌý
- Zero waste festivals/fairs:
- Bring a mason jar or reusable water bottle to refill.
- Bring a bandana to use as a reusable napkin.
- Bring foldable, resuable utensils.
- Leave no trace!Ìý
- Set up your own zero waste system on the campsiteÌýwithÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌý.
- Bring reusables, including aÌý. Investing in a portable grill is a sustainable way to have great meals while camping.
- Prepare a few bulk snacks that you can eat throughout the entire trip -ÌýÌý´Ç°ùÌýÌýare a great option!Ìý
- Opt forÌý.
- Non-reusable propane canisters can be recycled atÌý.
- Use any plastic bags that you must bring as pet waste bags on the trip.
- Consider borrowing or renting camping gear rather than buying new.
- If your camping gear is damaged or broken, try to repair it rather than throwing it away. Many local outdoor shops offer repair services.
Prep for move-in/move-out
- Keep these sustainable tips in mind:
- Wrap anything fragile in t-shirts or soft fabricÌýinstead of plastic wrap.
- Use biodegradable packing materials as much as possible.
- If you're moving to a new place or a new state, make sure to look up theÌýrecycling guidelines, which can vary by location.
- Limit your electronic waste.
- Look for Energy Star labeled products that use less energy.
- Choose LED bulbs over other varieties for lighting.
- Check out these articles for more specific information forÌýmove out off-campusÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýon-campus.
Categories: sustainable Buffs