Welcome to July, a month eagerly awaited by many people in the US for its iconic holiday—the 4th of July, Independence Day! It's a time for family gatherings, fireworks, and festivities. But did you know that the day after, on July 5th, air pollution increases by 42% due to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals from the celebrations? (source: Greencitizen.com). To help reduce this impact, here are 5 sustainable practices to make your 4th of July memorable and environmentally friendly.
Repurpose and Revitalize Decorations
Instead of buying new decorations, dig out your previous ones and give them a new life. Upcycling old decorations can be a fun activity, adding a creative twist to your celebrations. If you must buy new items, choose those made from durable materials that can be used for future holidays.
Choose Local, Organic, and Sustainable Foods
Supporting local farms provides fresher food and reduces carbon emissions from transportation. Look for the USDA Organic certification to ensure that your food is produced sustainably. At Copra, we pride ourselves on offering USDA-certified organic products that are both sustainable and nutritious, from farm to factory, ensuring the best for our customers.
Avoid Single-Use Plastics
When ordering food for your celebration, skip the single-use plastics. Instead, use your own utensils at home and compost food waste to reduce the environmental impact. This simple step can significantly cut down on the plastic waste generated during the holiday.
Participate in Community Clean-Up Events
Use the holiday as an opportunity to participate in community clean-up events, whether it's in your neighborhood, a local park, church, or school. This not only helps reduce waste but also strengthens community bonds and reduces electricity use by spending time outdoors.
Incorporate Plant-Based Options in Your Menu
Reduce your environmental impact by featuring plant-based dishes. Plant-based foods require fewer resources and produce less pollution compared to animal products, making them a greener choice for your celebration. At Copra, we offer delicious plant-based meat alternatives made from 100% organic Thai young coconut meat, which is gluten-free, dairy-free, rich in fiber, and packed with MCT fats. Enjoy a tasty, health-conscious meal that's also kind to the planet.
This 4th of July, let's embrace sustainable practices to celebrate in a way that's not only enjoyable but also beneficial for our planet. By integrating these habits into our lives, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.