How to have a zero waste summer

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.
 
Categories: sustainable Buffs