5 Planet-Friendly Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July
Fourth of July: fire dances across dark night skies, the nostalgic smoky smell in your clothes, the slippery feeling of sunscreen between your hands.
No matter how you celebrate, whether it’s grilling in the park or splashing in the pool, we can’t wait to kick back with family and friends for a summertime celebration — OMD style.
Read on for some ideas on how to have a planet-friendly Fourth of July, and grab some of our favorite recipes to share.
Get Outside
Is there anything more fun than a long bike ride or hike to kick off a summertime celebration? Take a spin to your local farmers market to stock up on some BBQ necessities, or head to your local Independence Day parade. However you decide to spend your afternoon, biking or taking public transportation can slash your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win-win!
Choose Organic, Local Ingredients
When you shop local, you’re supporting your local economy and farmers, enjoying fruits and veggies at their peak ripeness and reducing your carbon “foodprint.” What’s better? You’re also connecting with your community — not to mention a farmers markets on a sunny morning can be a great place to kick off a holiday weekend. Don’t have a farmers market nearby? Sign up for a CSA for a fresh delivery of vibrant health.
Fire Up the Grill
Now that you have everything you need it’s time to get cooking with family and friends for a plant-based Fourth of July barbecue. When you skip eating meat and dairy for at least one meal a day, you’re fighting climate change while embracing a healthier lifestyle. If veggie burgers feel a bit outdone, try your hand at some other options that the whole crew will love. Need some ideas? We’ve got you covered.
Make Some Nice Cream
Did you know that approximately 70% of African Americans, 90% of Asian Americans, 53% of Mexican Americans and 74% of Native Americans are lactose intolerant? This Fourth of July, opt for some “nice cream” instead which offers all the deliciousness and and fond memories of dairy ice cream, without the harmful effects on our bodies, and on our planet. Here are some of our favorite nice cream recipes – no ice cream maker necessary.
Reuse and Repurpose
Sure, decorating for the Fourth of July can be fun, but why not try to reuse some decorations you already have? Not only will it save money, it will cut waste. Have some red vases? Fill them with fresh, white flowers from your local farmers market. Or grab those Christmas lights collecting dust in your attic and use them to light up your backyard.
While you’re whipping up your spread, we recommend ditching the disposables. Instead of paper plates and napkins, opt for real plates and silverware. Not only will this simple act cut waste and our impact on the environment, it’ll also save you money!
What's Next?
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