Dear Terra
Camping and picnicking season is here, and I dread the bags of garbage that come with it. Any ideas?
Crushed by Trash
The reason we spend time outdoors is to enjoy the natural beauty, right? So why trash it with disposable plastics? Here are some ways to slow the trash train:
- Dishes–As Girl Scouts, we had one plate, cup and utensil set which we washed, rinsed, and hung to dry in our “ditty bags” after each meal. Google “tea towel ditty bags” or “Scout camp ditty bags” to make your own. https://www.eurekacamping.com/blog/article/how-make-ditty-bag You need to wash the pans anyway, right? (If you must use paper plates, avoid those with printed designs, which is really a plastic coating. Choose plain white ones instead.)
- Put back that case of disposable water bottles! Take reusable water bottles and refillable water jugs, tanks or bags (available at stores like REI). Skip or limit canned or bottled beverages.
- Eliminate individually wrapped snacks, pre-packaged meals and reduce all that packaging. Save small jars to put your own condiments into, make DIY energy bars, trail mix, cookies, etc. and wrap in bee’s wax wraps or reusable storage bags.
- Reduce plastic wrap, paper towels, plastic baggies, foil. Our grandparents managed, right?
- Don’t burn aluminum cans, plastic or trash in the campfire, as it can release toxins into the air.
Next week, more “green” camping tips. Stay safe!
Terra
Categories: Dear Terra