Hosting with Heart this Holiday Season: 5 Tips for a Purposeful, Eco-Friendly Gathering

With the busy holiday season around the corner, here are my top five tips for hosting a more purposeful, eco-friendly gathering.

1. Plan with Purpose

Define your gathering's purpose beyond just celebration. Whether it's to connect, share gratitude, or build community, a clear purpose helps guide sustainable choices. Choose decorations, food, and activities that reflect your gathering's values, prioritizing options that are eco-conscious, inclusive, and meaningful to guests.

2a. Source Local and Seasonal Foods

Sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your gathering. Visit farmers' markets or support local suppliers to plan a menu that reflects what's in season. Not only does this reduce food miles, but it also supports your local economy.

2b. Embrace Plant-Based Options

Offering plant-based dishes is a sustainable choice that reduces the environmental impact of your meal. Plant-based foods generally have a lower carbon footprint than meat and dairy. Including a variety of vegetarian and vegan options can also cater to dietary preferences and showcase delicious, eco-friendly alternatives.

3. Go Zero-Waste with Decorations

Avoid single-use decorations that end up in landfills. Use natural or reusable items like pinecones, dried oranges, or potted plants to decorate your space. Homemade or reusable décor not only reduces waste but adds a unique, personal touch to your gathering.

4a. Promote Sustainable Travel Options

Since travel contributes heavily to event emissions, encourage local guests to carpool, walk, bike, or use public transportation. For those coming from farther away, suggest offsetting their carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits or contributing to a local environmental project.

By implementing these practices, you can create a gathering that leaves a lasting positive impact on both your guests and the planet.

4b. Set Up a Digital Invitation and Communication System

Go paperless by sending digital invitations and updates. Not only is this more sustainable, but it also allows for easier communication with guests. You can use online platforms to manage RSVPs, share location details, and provide information on sustainable practices for your event, such as directions for carpooling or reusable items to bring.

5. Encourage Gifting Green

If gifts are part of your gathering, consider promoting eco-friendly gift-giving. Encourage guests to give experiences rather than material items, such as gift cards for local businesses, or to bring eco-conscious items, like handmade goods, locally crafted products, or gifts that support sustainable causes.

By implementing these practices, you can create a gathering that leaves a lasting positive impact on both your guests and the planet.

Consider gifting How We Gather Matters to someone special this holiday season. You can order it online from Amazon. And please consider leaving a review there.

This article is reprinted from the one I wrote for New Society Publishers. Happy holidays.