Last week we talked about easy actions you can take to save money and reduce waste when hosting, or attending, a party—whether that’s a picnic, sports party/tailgate, or fall get together.
We didn’t get to food last week. Food is often the center of parties but it can also have the biggest impact in terms of sustainability. It’s easy to forget how many resources go into providing the food we eat, and the impact that has on the environment around us.
Did you know it takes more than 1,000 gallons of water to produce 1lb of beef? Have you thought about the gallons of gas needed to transport your food from farm to production plant to warehouse to grocery store to your house?—and that doesn’t include planting, fertilizing, harvesting, and storing crops, and potentially feeding to livestock.
Don’t stop reading, this isn’t a lecture. Just know that making some conscious decisions can lessen your impact, save you money, and you can still put out a great spread:
Did you make too much food? If it won’t be eaten as leftovers (be honest with yourself!) don’t toss it or store it until it grows mold, rescue it! Did you know there a multiple locations that will accept prepared food to serve those in need? Saving Grace will pick up larger quantities (wedding receptions, etc.) and get them to the right place.
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