²ÝÝ®ÊÓÆµ

²ÝÝ®ÊÓÆµ

Patel College of Global Sustainability

News

How to Celebrate the 4th of July Sustainably

Tomorrow is the 4th, and we wish you a happy Independence Day! As you gear up for celebrations filled with fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings, it's a wonderful opportunity to think about sustainability. Here are simple yet impactful ways to celebrate responsibly and sustainably this Fourth of July:

Opt for Eco-Friendly Decorations

Swap single-use plastic decorations for reusable, recyclable, or biodegradable options. Choose cloth banners, paper flags, or decorations made from sustainable materials that can be reused each year.

4th of July Decorations

Use Reusable Serveware

Instead of disposable plates, cups, and utensils, opt for reusable items. If disposable is necessary, choose biodegradable or compostable options to minimize waste.

Reusable Serveware

Grill Sustainably

Consider grilling vegetables or plant-based proteins, and opt for sustainably sourced meats or seafood. Using propane or electric grills instead of charcoal can reduce air pollution significantly.

Reduce Food Waste

Plan your menu carefully to minimize leftovers and food waste. Provide clearly marked bins for composting food scraps and recycling, making it easy for guests to dispose of waste responsibly. Our partners, the Rosebudd Consortium will gladly take your food waste to fuel its "domestic dragon"/Biodigester.

Choose Environmentally-Friendly Fireworks

Fireworks can have a significant environmental impact. Opt for eco-friendly alternatives such as laser shows, light displays, or biodegradable lanterns. If you do use fireworks, clean up thoroughly afterward.

Encourage Sustainable Transportation

Encourage guests to carpool, bike, walk, or use public transportation to reduce emissions. This small action can greatly reduce the overall carbon footprint of your celebration. The holiday is a time to be together, so why not get there together?

Carpooling

By incorporating these simple sustainability tips into your celebrations, you can enjoy a festive Fourth of July while respecting and preserving our environment. Happy Independence Day—let’s celebrate responsibly and sustainably!

Return to article listing

About Department News

Welcome to the Patel College of Global Sustainability News Center – A comprehensive information network dedicated to providing you with the most compelling stories and reports on what’s happening in the vast world of Global Sustainability. Subscribe to our mailing list to see what our fellow Sustain-a-bulls are doing today!