Labor Day weekend is a time to celebrate the achievements of American workers and enjoy the last days of summer. But it can also be a time to show some love for the environment and make more sustainable choices.
Here are five ways to have an eco-friendly Labor Day weekend that are fun, easy, and good for the planet.
The best general strategy for this Labor Day is: Consume less.
Use less fuel, use less electricity, buy fewer products, and properly dispose of the products you do use. It won’t take away from the fun and excitement of your day off, nor will it take much additional time to accomplish. You’ll feel good about your celebration and ready to head into fall with your best eco-friendly foot forward.
If you’re going to fire up the grill and have a few hamburgers and hot dogs, consider your fuel choices.
Charcoal: Although many love the taste of food cooked over a charcoal grill, cooking with charcoal releases volatile organic compounds, trace metals, and particulates that contribute to air pollution.
Gas: It may not seem like an eco-responsible option, but natural gas and propaneboth produce far fewer emissions than charcoal. Here’s a nice comparison of the benefits and disadvantages of gas and propane grills.
Pellets: Pellet grills are growing in popularity and provide a greener option to charcoal. They’re fueled by wood pellets and might actually be healthier for you than other grilling methods.
Electric: If your electricity comes from renewable energy resources (like solar and wind), an electric grill may be the most environmentally friendly way to cook your outdoor meal.
Solar: The sun can cook a delicious meal. Check out Earth911’s recent review of solar ovens.
Explore nature trails and hikes
If you’re looking for eco-friendly Labor Day activities, what better way to celebrate than immersing yourself in the beauty of nature? Lace up your hiking boots, pack a reusable water bottle, and head to a local trail or park. Whether walking, hiking or simply enjoying a stroll, connecting with nature is good for your overall health and reminds you of the importance of preserving our natural world.
Recycle (and make it easy for your guests to recycle). One of the easiest ways to have an eco-friendly Labor Day weekend is to recycle as much as possible. Whether hosting a party or attending one, ensure clearly labeled bins for recycling materials like paper, plastic, metal, and glass. You can also encourage your guests to bring their reusable cups and containers to reduce waste. And don’t forget to compost any food scraps or organic materials that can be fertilized for your garden.
Happy Labor Day!
Learn more about EvCC Sustainability! www.everettcc.edu/green
Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator sustainability@everettcc.edu