How to Have an Eco-Friendly Coronation Party
On 6th May 2023, the UK will be coming together to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. This monumental occasion calls for an equally special celebration, but we should also aim to make it as sustainable as possible. By taking a few simple steps, we can ensure that our celebrations have a positive impact on the environment. Here are four tips to help you and your community celebrate in an eco-friendly way.
Ditch the Plastic Bunting
Bunting is an essential decoration for any celebratory occasion, including a coronation party. It sets the tone for a traditional British party and helps to create a festive atmosphere. However, most bunting these days is made from plastic, which is not only harmful to the environment but also doesn’t last very long. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, and most of it ends up in landfills or the ocean. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives available.
If you’re feeling creative, you can make your own bunting from old sheets and clothes. This is a great way to upcycle and repurpose old textiles. You could also consider making paper chains from scrap paper, old magazines, and flyers. This is a fun and easy activity that you can do with your friends and family in the weeks leading up to the party. We sell a few eco-friendly craft essentials to help you get started.
If you prefer to purchase pre-made bunting, consider buying cotton bunting that can be washed and reused for future parties. This is a sustainable option that will save you money in the long run. By ditching plastic bunting, you’ll be doing your part to reduce plastic waste and make your coronation party more environmentally friendly.
Swap Plastic Cups for Stainless Steel
Disposable plastic cups have become a party staple over the years, but they’re far from eco-friendly. Plastic cups are flimsy, split easily, and cannot be recycled indefinitely. They also contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. An alternative to plastic cups is to use reusable stainless steel cups. Stainless steel cups are durable, easy to clean, and can keep your drinks cooler for longer. They are also non-toxic and odourless, making them a safer option than plastic.
Investing in a set of stainless steel cups for your coronation party is a sustainable choice that will benefit you in the long run. Stainless steel is a durable material that can last for many years, making it a cost-effective option. If you’re worried about the initial expense, you can consider asking your guests to bring their own cups. This will not only reduce waste but also add a personal touch to the party.
Wrap Food the Sustainable Way
Whether your guests are contributing to the food, or you’re providing the food yourself, it’s essential to keep it fresh and safe to eat. Traditionally, food would be covered with cling film, but this is not a sustainable option. Cling film is a single-use plastic that contributes to plastic waste and pollution. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives that you can use.
One option is to use storage containers that you already have, such as upcycled takeaway tubs or stylish stainless steel lunch boxes. These containers are reusable and can keep your food fresh for longer. If you need to wrap plates of food, consider using compostable cling film, wax wraps, or recycled foil. By doing so, you’ll reduce the amount of waste generated by your party and make a positive contribution to the environment.
Plan for Proper Waste Disposal
All parties generate waste, and it’s essential to think ahead about what is going to happen with this waste to ensure that it’s disposed of properly. One simple solution is to provide three separate wheelie bins for recycling, food and general waste. This stops any recyclable waste going to landfill and means that any food waste can be composted. If you don’t have a compost bin at home, check if any of your neighbours have one that they wouldn’t mind sharing. To keep your wheelie bins clean, you can even use a compostable wheelie bin liner.
In addition to providing bins, it’s also essential to reduce the amount of waste generated in the first place. One way to do this is by encouraging guests to bring their own plates, cups and cutlery. This not only reduces the amount of waste generated by the party but also adds to the festive spirit of the event. You can also consider using biodegradable or compostable plates and cutlery made from materials such as bamboo or palm leaves. These options are more environmentally friendly than disposable plastic plates and cutlery and can be composted after use.
Finally, it’s essential to clean up after the party properly. Make sure that all waste is disposed of in the correct bins and that any decorations or leftover food are packed away. If possible, avoid using single-use plastic bags to collect the rubbish and instead use compostable bin liners or reusable bags. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your street party is not only fun and festive but also environmentally friendly.