KIDS’ PARTIES

It’s almost impossible to notice the waste that gets created at children’s parties. It’s a real shame that such happy occasions are tainted with single-use waste. Again, marketeers have sold us a picture perfect image of happy little faces surrounded by colourful, themed wonderlands. “Have a Frozen party, with life-sized Elsa cutouts, table runners, balloons and frosty plates and cups” they say. Though this is a fun idea, it is not sustainable to buy new ‘stuff’ for every party. (And honestly, do the kids care if they are fed and left to go bonkers?! First world problems and all that…)

RECIEVING GIFTS
When inviting people to the party, request second hand gifts.

PARTY BAGS
Here are some alternatives to lots of little bits of rubbish in a plastic bag:

• Books

• Seed bombs 

• Homemade treats in a jar / pot

• Fun bath things from LUSH (packaging free)

• Activity books

DECORATIONS
Try and find bunting or garlands that you can reuse. Instead of balloons, try paper lanterns and pompoms.

CUPS, PLATES & NAPKINS
Paper plates and cups are often coating in plastic, making them non-recyclable. Most ‘compostable’ ones have to be composted in specific composting plants that most councils don’t offer (you can’t put them in the brown bin). So, use reusable cups and plates that can come out for picnics and parties year after year.

THEMED PARTIES
If you really can’t do without a themed party and you happen to live near Chesham in Buckinghamshire, there is a brilliant Facebook group called Pass the Party, where you can lend and borrow al the accessories you will need for a themed party. Genius!

GIFT WRAPPING
Please see tip on gift wrapping under Create Less Waste.