Celebrating the Holidays with Sustainability in Mind
As holiday season approaches, the excitement of planning festive gatherings can sometimes be overshadowed by concerns about environmental impact. Enter Priscila Báez, Georgetown University's associate director of events at the Earth Commons Institute, who has mastered the art of hosting eco-friendly events. With over 125 successful events under her belt since joining in 2023, Báez emphasizes that every gathering can inspire a sense of community while being mindful of our planet.
Creating Lasting Connections Through Intention
Báez's inspiration stems from her Ecuadorian roots where family celebrations allowed each detail, from menus to decorations, to shine. By applying this philosophy to larger events at Georgetown, she brings people together in ways that not only celebrate life but also promote environmental stewardship. Her holistic approach emphasizes flexibility, creativity, and above all, fun, proving that sustainability doesn’t have to be a burden on the joyous spirit of the holidays.
Practical Tips for Your Next Sustainable Holiday Gathering
1. **Eco-friendly Decorations**: Choose reusable or compostable decorations. Integrate natural elements like pinecones and holly or create DIY decorations that involve your guests. Check out options like dried citrus garlands or homemade candles that can add a personal touch without adding to landfills.
2. **Gift-Giving with Meaning**: Make gifting more thoughtful. Instead of buying items, consider homemade gifts or experiences, like crafting personalized ornaments together or receiving gifts tied to charitable donations.
3. **Waste Reduction During Food Prep**: Use up leftover ingredients creatively—for instance, repurpose excess veggies into a hearty soup or create a holiday punch using discarded fruit scraps. Additionally, host a potluck-style meal where guests bring dishes made from their kitchen surplus, amplifying community engagement.
Make Your Event Truly Memorable
At the core of Báez's event planning philosophy is the belief that gatherings should connect people deeply to one another and the environment. By instilling intentionality into every aspect of an event, hosts can forge incredible memories while aligning with sustainable practices—helping not just the earth but enriching the holiday spirit.
Start Planning for a Green Holiday Season!
Looking to make this holiday season both enjoyable and environmentally friendly? Take notes from Priscila Báez and consider these sustainability tips for your next gathering. With planning and creativity, you can celebrate the holidays and take actions that honor the planet. Remember, every effort counts in making a positive impact.
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