Thanksgiving comes once a year as a merry tradition that has morphed into gluttonous feasting and sharing why we are #blessed via social media. While we all give ourselves a pat on that back for expressing our gratitude, it’s easy to forget about the consequential externalities of the festivities. Did you know that tens of millions of turkey’s lives are taken each year to serve as the centerpiece of consumption on said joyous day?
This week, before you become comatose with full bellies and sleepy eyes, try a few tricks to make your holiday weekend more environmentally conscious:
Go Meatless
This may sound a bit extreme to you die-hard meat-eaters and traditionalists, but as a committed vegetarian of 4.5 years, I can honestly say that I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything. Meat consumption is one of the largest contributors to CO2 emissions affecting global warming, and you have the power to stand against it!
Buy local and organic
If you must prepare a turkey, purchase one raised in humane conditions, hormone- and antibiotic-free, that hasn’t traveled very far to get to your plate. That goes for all of the other ingredients as well!
Watch portions
Thanksgiving meals tend to consist of more food than a ship full of vikings could demolish, maybe. What I’m trying to say is that there is usually a lot of food left over, so maybe buying a few less potatoes isn’t a bad call.
Donate leftovers
If you do have a surplus of food post-feasting, reuse the leftovers for future meals, send them home with guests, give them to a local shelter, or compost. Furthermore, try to be a responsible, mindful consumer each time you eat!
Use real tableware
Instead of reaching for the convenient disposable napkins, plates, and utensils, reduce your waste by using the real deal. Plastic and styrofoam are earth’s enemies, trust me.
Safe travels and Happy Thanksgiving!
-Gabby
Sustainability HQ is a weekly series with stories, tips and tricks for how to make your business and office space more sustainable. Email me at hello@enplug.com with any thoughts, stories, or ideas!