Four Ways to Go Green on the Fourth of July

The smell of fireworks, the sound of the waves, and the hot July sun beaming down – these things scream “Fourth of July”. But this day that celebrates our nation’s independence and marks the beginning of summer-time fun can also be met with serious consequences to this Earth. This leaves us with the daunting question; how can we celebrate the Fourth of July while remaining eco-friendly? Luckily, there are four easy changes that we can make to help ensure that our festivities are planet friendly.

Tip #1 – No plastic plates, no problem

It’s no secret that plastic plates, utensils, and cups are convenient. It’s much easier to throw your plate away than spend time doing the dishes. Unfortunately, the convenience of plastic waste is outweighed by the devastation it causes to the earth. Consider switching out your plastic and use reusable plates this Fourth of July. Instead of assigning one person the duty of dishes, make it into a game, invite your friends to help, have fun and save the earth in the process. The good recycling can do is remarkable, however roughly only 9% of all plastic is recycled every year. With such a high percentage of plastic not properly recycled, it’s evident that people are disregarding the Earth’s needs for their own convenience. The easiest way to avoid being part of this problem is to switch to reusable items. Make your Jell-O shots in a fun reusable shot glasses rather than plastic shot glasses! Switch out your swirly plastic straw for a metal reusable straw! Enjoy that hamburger on a sturdy plate, rather than a flimsy plastic plate. Not only will these changes improve the quality of your Fourth of July, it will ensure a healthy future for your nation, and Earth.

Tip #2 – Ditch the charcoal grill

While summer days are never complete without a good barbecue and some friends, you can still cook up the same delicious meal while reducing your carbon footprint. With over 60 million Americans grilling up on the fourth, carbon dioxide emissions sky rocket and create devastating effects on our earth. An easy way to contribute to the solution rather than the problem is to switch to propane or electric grills! Doing so would reduce your carbon footprint, and still allow you to enjoy a great meal with family and friends.

Tip #3 – Enjoy the community fire show

The Fourth of July is famously known for being one of the only days a year where we can enjoy a spectacular firework show – but at what cost? It’s no secret that fireworks are extremely destructive to the earth; the smoke they release harm local air quality, and the chemicals they possess contaminate bodies of water. Are the minutes of awe worth the lingering consequences? No one wants to miss out on the festivities and fun of fireworks, but there are ways to get the best of both worlds. Instead of going out and buying packs of fireworks and lighting them in your backyard, consider grabbing a few friends and driving to the nearest firework show at the lake. Doing so not only helps the earth but also gives you a great excuse to huddle up with your best friends and enjoy an amazing show. Plus, think about how nice it is not have to wake up the next day and clean up all the debris!

Tip #4 – Respect the earth

A basic rule that we should all live by every day, is to respect the earth. It is understandable that people want to celebrate this national holiday, but doing so doesn’t mean destroying your home in the process. Whether or not you choose to go out to the lake, park, or stay in your backyard, it is important to always remember to pick up after yourself. Leaving food behind that can be damaging to local wild life or trash that can harm animals and the earth are both things that we need to consciously avoid doing. Instead, hold each other accountable and remember that it is our duty to protect this earth and the animals that live on it.

Bonus Tip #5 – Stay aware:

With the Fourth of July this year landing in the middle of a pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement, there are additional things to consider when celebrating the United States this year. In order to remain healthy and safe, it is important to avoid large groups and instead, practice safety precautions. Rock that red, white, and blue mask while sitting six feet apart. It’s the best way to save lives and have fun! Secondly, it is crucial that we recognize that for everything we have to celebrate this year, there are also a lot of things that need reforming. So while enjoying a long weekend, consider taking a little time to raise awareness, make calls, and sign petitions in alliance with our BLM community.