5 Eco-Friendly Picnic Ideas

Picnics are often one of the highlights of summer. However, they can often be quite harmful to our environment. There are several ways to make your summer picnic even better by using some of these eco-friendly tips. Here are some ways to improve any picnic.

Eco-Friendly Picnic Tip #1: Use eco-friendly disposable or reusable dishes and utensils.

There are several companies that provide eco-friendly and disposable dishes and/or utensils from starches, bamboo, and other natural items. Whole Foods is a great resource for many of these items at a reasonable price. Here are a few that I have found useful.

Nat-Ur creates compostable products made from biodegradable resin from corn and potato starches, which breaks down very easily in nature.

Gaiam creates an entire place setting from switchgrass. Switchgrass is an abundant perennial grass in North America. However, what makes these materials special is that they are covered in cornstarch to provide durability and stability. I love that these products are also dishwasher safe.

Terra Ware also has a wide variety of products under $4.00 that claim to be cut resistant, microwave safe, and BPA free.

Eco-Friendly Picnic Tip #2: Use cloth napkins.

The paper waste that comes from picnics is outstanding. By using a cloth napkin, you save a tremendous amount of waste. They are actually pretty inexpensive and certainly environmentally friendly. You can also throw them in a good washer and dryer for an easy clean up.

Eco-Friendly Picnic Tip #3: Use an eco-friendly picnic basket.

An eco-friendly picnic basket can be a great addition to your picnic. Most eco-friendly picnic baskets are made from willow and other completely natural, biodegradable materials. Some even come with a complete picnic set with a bamboo dinner set and cloth napkin.

Eco-Friendly Picnic Tip #4: Pack an organic and local meal.

Buying local organic fruits and vegetables is key. It is a simple task to do that creates a huge impact on our environment. Knowing where you meat came from and that it was not injected or altered in anyway can truly help not only the environment, but also your body. Knowing that you are eating all-natural foods is a great feeling.

Eco-Friendly Picnic Tip #5: Take home what you took in.

Be sure to keep an eye on everything that you brought so you don't leave any trash or not eco-friendly materials behind.

Use these eco-friendly tips to enhance your summer picnics. Also, enjoy eco-friendly activities after your meal, such as a Frisbee game or tossing the ball with your dog.

Sources:

http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Family-Lifestyle/20-Eco-Friendly-Family-Activities.html
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2005/12/biodegradable_d_2.php
http://blisstree.com/live/eco-friendly-picnic-gear/