Gobble Green: An Eco-Friendly Thanksgiving

If you are looking for ideas to create some new Thanksgiving traditions, consider going green this holiday season. Here are a few ways to get you started:

Turkey Talk

So your guests didn’t go for that tofurkey idea last year. Try organic this year instead. Visit Local Harvest to find a farm near you, offering organic turkey this year.

Get Fancy

Skip the paper napkins. Purchase a set of cloth napkins that can be washed and reused every year. You may just impress your guests and Mother Nature this year.

Try Low Impact Decorations

Skimp on the paper decorations but go all out at Rawganique where you can purchase absolutely stunning organic cotton and hemp tablecloths. You may find yourself doing some early holiday shopping as the company offers a wide range of organic cotton, linen, and hemp products from clothing to DIY fabrics.

Clean House

Try non-toxic cleaning solutions this year especially if you have guests with allergies, asthma, or children that will be crawling on your kitchen floor. If you want to make your own cleaning solutions, read: The Naturally Clean Home by Karyn Siegel-Maier.

Buy Local & Organic

This time of year is perfect for those root vegetables plentiful at most farmer’s markets. Don’t have time to browse the farmer’s market? Try an organic produce delivery service for butternut squash, pumpkin, or other seasonal offerings.

Drink Green

Try local brews or an organic wine distributor that offers organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO beverages such as The Organic Wine Company

If You Buy Paper Plates

Check out Verterra for amazing, non-toxic, biodegradable, compostable, durable, and eco-chic place settings.

Skip Dish Duty

Leave it to the dishwasher! According to a recent study, an Energy Star dishwasher can save gallons of water in comparison to hand-washing dishes. Skip the heated dry option, pack the dishwasher to full capacity, and use an eco-friendly soap.

Recycle

Have a family member create clearly marked recycling bins for paper, plastic, or compostable foods items before the guests arrive. You’ll save time and energy separating out your “trash” at the end of the evening.

Give Thanks & Just Give

Create a new Thanksgiving tradition by going around the table and asking guests what they are thankful for this year. Plan in advance to bring food to a local food shelter or donate to a charity chosen by the guests at your table.

If you enjoyed this article, you may like other green living articles including OMBE’s Green Gift Guide or Create a Healthy & Chemical-Free Home.

Want to learn more about greening your home to benefit the health of your family? New patients can book online to schedule any telehealth or acupuncture service including a complimentary consult.