A Green Thanksgiving

As millions of Americans enjoy the holidays, large meals and special occasions where many places are set mean waste is sure to pile up. Make this Thanksgiving a green one by taking proactive steps to minimize the output of garbage and reduce waste while offering your guests a dazzling meal. Sometimes just being conscious can ensure you will enjoy a really green Thanksgiving. To help you along the way, here are a handful of tips that might make your Thanksgiving even more green:

1. While purchasing more than you need is a definite assurance your guests are well fed, be sure to buy only the food you know you can pack as leftovers. Other foods that are likely to spoil or end up in the garbage should be avoided or bought in smaller portions.
2. Consider buying locally grown foods whenever possible by visiting your town's farmers' market or vegetable stands nearby.
3. Seek organic foods to make your Thanksgiving meal healthy and greener. Finding a free-range Thanksgiving turkey should be near the top of your priority list for example.
4. Seek recycled paper products or opt for cloth napkins if you already own them.
5. Conserve your paper goods usage this Thanksgiving by announcing to your guests that you are hosting a Green Thanksgiving this year and ask everyone to join in the spirit of a making a greener holiday by watching their own usage of paper goods and other products.

Making the most of the holidays makes for more meaningful occasions. Taking small steps towards having a greener Thanksgiving will make this Thanksgiving holiday that much more magical. Bon appetit!