8 Top Tips for Hosting a Plastic and Waste Free Party

Celebration coming up? Want to throw a party that's not only a blast for your guests but also kind to the planet? Hosting a plastic-free party is a great way to reduce waste and minimise your environmental footprint - and it is easier than you might think.

From swapping out single-use plastics to embracing pre-loved gifting, let's make your next event a sustainable success!

1. Ditch Single-Use: The first step in hosting a waste-free party is to avoid single-use! Instead of disposable cups, plates, and utensils, opt for reusable alternatives - like the ones you already own. We hired a hall for Bobbi's 4th party and they had hundreds of plates and mugs available for use. At home and need more sets than you own? Why not consider renting tableware from a local party company or asking guests to bring their own.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Decorations: Balloons sadly count as single-use plastic, and released into the environment have severe consequences on our wildlife. Instead, consider using flowers, potted plants, or leafy greenery to decorate your space. You can also opt for reusable fabric bunting or paper garlands that can be saved and reused for future celebrations - which will save you money in the long run too!

3. Happy to get Crafty - Why not transform old newspapers or magazines into paper chains or origami decorations. Or collect glass jars and fill them with fairy lights or tea candles for a cozy ambiance. You could even encourage your guests to get involved by hosting a pre-party crafting session and make all the decorations together.

4. Minimise Packaging Waste: When planning your party, be mindful of waste associated with food and beverages. Opt for package-free options, like your favourite fruit and veg, and consider serving drinks from large dispensers instead. If you need individual drinks, choose the can - aluminium is infinitely recyclable! You can even encourage your guests to bring their own reusable containers for leftovers.

5. Embrace Pre-Loved Gifting: Encourage your guests to get creative with their gifts by choosing pre-loved or homemade options. You can often find new and unused toys in charity shops, as well as new and unworn clothing on platforms like Vinted and marketplace. Maybe you recently received something that didn't suit you or that your child already owns - then re-gift it! Not only does this reduce waste, but getting creative can also add a personal touch to the gift-giving experience.

6. Choose Recyclable Wrapping Paper: When it comes to wrapping presents, not all paper is created equal. Look for wrapping paper that is made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable. Avoid glossy or metallic papers, as these often contain non-recyclable elements like plastic coatings. Opt for plain kraft paper or recycled tissue paper instead, and get creative with eco-friendly decorations like twine or dried flowers. Not sure if the paper can be recycled - use the scrunch test. If the paper remains scrunched it is likely to be recyclable, if it opens up, it likely contains plastic - and can not be recycled.

7. Ditch the Celotape: Traditional celotape contains plastic and can't be recycled. In fact, those little strips of plastic can wreak havoc on recycling machines and contaminate otherwise recyclable materials. So, if you do receive a gift sealed with celotape, make sure you peel it off before recycling. Opt for paper-based tape or biodegradable alternatives made from plant-based materials instead. 

8. Build Plastic-Free Party Bags: Party bags are popular at many children's parties, but they don't have to be filled with plastic trinkets (junk) and sweets. Instead, opt for sustainable alternatives like colouring pads, flower seeds or small potted plants and glass jars filled with homemade treats. Alternatively - you could ditch the party bag altogether - and simply share the cake.

From ditching single-use plastics to getting creative with eco-friendly decorations, there are plenty of ways to minimise waste and reduce your environmental impact while still throwing a memorable celebration.

Every small change adds up to make a big difference. By making conscious choices and leading by example, you can inspire others to embrace eco-friendly practices in their own lives. Together, we can create a greener, cleaner future for generations to come.

Happy party planning!