Celebrate Green This New Year

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Tomorrow is the big day, the ringing in of a new start. Many will gather around the television near midnight to witness dazzling lights, confetti and balloons flurry around New York City’s Times Square. The New Year’s Eve Ball will slide down the One Times Square flag pole as the excitement cheers it on. Most of us will watch with friends and family at parties, and you can make your celebration more eco-friendly celebration and a few green resolutions.

For any celebration, you need furniture, drinks and food. If you don’t have enough seating, borrow from neighbors. You can also rent seating from party stores, along with reusable cups, plates, silverware and tablecloths. If you want to go with disposable dishes, choose on of the many eco-disposable options out there.

No New Years gathering is complete without a little bubbly. Although there are many options out there, organic champagne and organic sparkling apple cider will leave your guests synthetic fungicide-, herbicide- and fertilizer-free. Find both at Whole Foods Markets or local liquor stores.

Because New Years get-togethers start later in the evening, you can focus on appetizers and light snacks. Choose cheeses from local dairies, local nuts or dried fruits or seasonal winter fruits and veggies. Look in your natural foods section for organic versions of classic snacks such as pizza.

Resolutions

When the party is over, the 2009 glasses have been retired and the champagne headache has worn off, it will be time to implement your resolutions for the year. A few popular resolutions are to lose weight, manage debt and save money. You can work toward all of these resolutions while also benefitting the environment.