A Greener Shade of Red, White and Blue

Yum!It’s definitely possible to give thanks and remember those who have fallen—and those who still serve—in defending your country while still respecting the earth who, too, protects you and gives you a home each day. Here are some tips for a greener Memorial Day. Keep them in mind for Independence Day as well!

Skip the paper plates and plastic ware. All these things do is fill landfills, and why waste your money for that? Doing dishes doesn’t take but a few moments—I should know, my dishwasher is broken! Your guests will appreciate it that their potato salad doesn’t bleed through, too.

Buy organic and local. Those watermelon boats and balls are cute and delicious—but if they’re full of chemicals they’re not doing anyone a favor. If you’ve got a local grower be sure to support them—while simultaneously not paying for the miles a store-bought watermelon may have been driven.

Use gas for grilling. Charcoal is worse for the environment—and that charred meat, while you might find it tasty, is actually worse for your body. It’s actually been linked to cancer.

Grill some greens. Instead of being so meat-heavy, which is more costly on both the environment and your wallet, try grilling up some fruit and veggie kabobs. Grilled pineapple is especially tasty, and you can alternate it with some marinated zucchini and mushrooms for a tasty treat.

Keep it naturally cool. Eat outside under an umbrella or beneath your backyard (or park) trees for some natural shade instead of using your air conditioner. If your kids want to play in the water, try the park’s creek—or, if you are at home, a wading pool instead of keeping the sprinkler running.

Use your own agua. Instead of spending a fortune on bottled water, serve plain ol’ tap water, which is better for the earth and for people in general. If you water is truly that disgusting, invest in a water filtration system. You can get one as cheap as twenty or thirty bucks, saving yourself lots of money in the long run.

Keep the bugs away safely. To stay away from DEET—a chemical pesticide known to cause damage to some animals—keep an eye on the ingredient lists when you buy insect repellent. Try using eucalyptus oil or citronella candles. There are also many plants that repel mosquitoes, such as catnip, citronella grass, marigolds and rosemary.