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How to have a zero waste summer

food on a picnic blanket

Summer might be a great time to relax, but that doesn't mean you should relax your standards ofÌýsustainability. Here are some zero waste activities and tips to keep in mind.

  • Visit the farmers market on WednesdaysÌýfrom 4-8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. to support local farmers and businesses and pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and more.
  • Farmers markets are the perfect place to ditch your plastic grocery bags and try fresh and in-season fruits and vegetables.
  • ±«²õ±ðÌýÌýto get around town,Ìýinstead of a car.
  • If you can't get to theÌýfarmers market every week, consider the LongmontÌýSimply Bulk MarketÌýto buy everything you'll needÌýfor your picnics, barbeques, camping tripsÌýand more.

  • Check outÌýÌýfor zero waste recipe ideas and trends.
  • Summer is a great time to set up backyard composting. Check outÌýthis articleÌýby a fellow member of the zero waste team.
  • Have your own zero waste picnic! Opt for reusable tupperware and silverware over single-use plastics.
  • Plan a staycation.ÌýInstead of flying or driving, consider finding new attractions to visit around your town.Ìý
  • Plan ahead with reusables and utensils for all the pit-stops you may make.Ìý
  • Bring your own food to reduce packaging waste fromÌýfood you might purchase from a gas station or store.Ìý
  • Mason jars are a summer staple! Bring someÌýalong to gather bulk food, make fresh squeezed lemonadeÌý´Ç°ùÌýstore food.

Zero waste activities

  • Zero waste barbeques/grilling:
  • Encourage your guests to bring reusable containers withÌýresealable lids to your cookout.
  • Bring your own utensils or cups.
  • Set up a compost area and recycling bin so friends and family can properly dispose of their waste.
  • PlanÌýfood and appetizers around what items you already have in your kitchen;Ìýget creative with recipes!
  • Zero waste day at the beach/reservoir/lake or tubing at the creek:
  • Bring your own snacks in reusable containers, and reusable utensils.
  • Clean up after yourself, and you can even pick up trash in the surrounding area.
  • Pack a cooler.
  • Take nothing, leave nothing.
  • Use a reef-safe sunscreen.ÌýSome reef-safe sunscreen brands include:Ìý
  • Thinksport
  • Kokua Sun Care
  • All Good
  • Suntegrity
  • Raw Elements
  • Babo Botanicals
  • Art of Sport
  • And manyÌý
  • Zero waste festivals/fairs:
  • Bring a mason jar or reusable water bottle to refill.
  • Bring a bandana to use as a reusable napkin.
  • Bring foldable, resuable utensils.

  • Leave no trace!Ìý
  • Set up your own zero waste system on the campsiteÌýwithÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌý.
  • Bring reusables, including aÌý. Investing in a portable grill is a sustainable way to have great meals while camping.
  • Prepare a few bulk snacks that you can eat throughout the entire trip -ÌýÌý´Ç°ùÌýÌýare a great option!Ìý
  • Opt forÌý.
  • Non-reusable propane canisters can be recycled atÌý.
  • Use any plastic bags that you must bring as pet waste bags on the trip.
  • Consider borrowing or renting camping gear rather than buying new.
  • If your camping gear is damaged or broken, try to repair it rather than throwing it away. Many local outdoor shops offer repair services.

Prep for move-in/move-out

  • Keep these sustainable tips in mind:
  • Wrap anything fragile in t-shirts or soft fabricÌýinstead of plastic wrap.
  • Use biodegradable packing materials as much as possible.
  • If you're moving to a new place or a new state, make sure to look up theÌýrecycling guidelines, which can vary by location.
  • Limit your electronic waste.
  • Look for Energy Star labeled products that use less energy.
  • Choose LED bulbs over other varieties for lighting.
  • Check out these articles for more specific information forÌýmove out off-campusÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýon-campus.