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How to Host a More Sustainable Party for the Big Game
Hosting a party for the big game? Check out our favorite tips for more sustainable ways to enjoy the festivities.Byline: BTB Editor
January 29, 2025 / Time to read: 5 minFrom lighting, heating and cooling stadiums to serving up snacks with single-use plastics and managing all the uneaten nachos, hot dogs and popcorn — huge-scale sporting events have historically been
But as the nation gears up to watch the biggest football event of the year, game-day organizers are making smart changes behind the scenes to prevent food waste and cut down on trash. Ever since the first zero-waste event in 2018 — which kept
If you’re one of the more than
We’re here to help you avoid sustainability fumbles and score the perfect balance between fun and eco-friendliness at your gathering. Keep reading to learn our top tips for gathering supplies, making and serving refreshments and tackling trash after the clock runs out.
Supplies
Did you know that if you put food or food-soiled containers into your recycling cart, you can contaminate a whole truckload of otherwise perfectly reusable recyclables? Instead of putting other recyclables at risk, keep these guidelines for takeout recyclables in mind.
Plan Ahead
By sending out invites early, you’ll be able to get a more accurate headcount — and likely leave less room for waste. Once you know how many people you’ll have, you can order just the right amount of food, drinks and any supplies you may need (like compostable napkins, for instance). After you have your guestlist nailed down, make sure to write out your grocery and supplies lists to prevent overbuying.
Opt for Reusable
Some disposable napkins and cutlery can be composted, but they can’t be recycled. As much as you’re able to, opt for reusable utensils, serveware and even napkins if you have them. If your guestlist is especially lengthy — and you’re not in the market for several sets of reusable utensils — consider compostable forks, spoons and knives made of plant-based materials.
Make sure to check with your local recycling center for your specific compost guidelines. If your center accepts dishware labeled compostable, it’s usually best to toss the items in your organics bin rather than your
Food and Drinks
Sure, the big game is inherently all about football. But it’s also very much about the snacks and cocktails. Choosing local, buying in bulk, batch serving and saving food before it spoils can reduce your party-day carbon footprint.
Choose Local
Whether it’s a wheel of brie from a farm in town, craft beer from a nearby brewery or wine from an area vineyard, opting for food and drinks that were grown and produced locally can
Buy in Bulk (Sometimes)
Serving up a dip trio? Buy the party size chips. Got a crew of beer fans? Go for the mini keg. Choosing bulk options — rather than smaller, individually wrapped items —
There’s one very important caveat here: Overdoing your bulk buys can also lead to food waste. Be realistic about how much your guests will scarf down before they head home.
Batch it
In the same vein as buying in bulk, serving batch-style can help you avoid some unnecessary packaging and serveware. Think: a signature cocktail or mocktail in a big pitcher, a DIY chili bar (a crockpot of chili plus a tray of toppings) or sheet-pan nachos. It’s also a good idea to have a big water dispenser handy rather than a cooler full of water bottles.Sub In and Sub Out at Halftime
While the grounds crew preps the field for the halftime show, take the opportunity to refrigerate or freeze food that’s been sitting out since the national anthem. You don’t have to let your guests go hungry (you can sub in hot or cold replenishments), but it’s a smart call to keep everyone safe with food that hasn’t spoiled.
Not sure how long your buffalo chicken dip is good for? What about the wings? Remember this easy rule of thumb: Toss anything that’s been out for
Disposal
Party sustainability goes beyond the prep. Make sure you have a plan for what to do with your party waste.Leverage Leftovers
As we mentioned before, the clock can and will run out on certain foods before the game’s over. Go ahead and refrigerate or freeze food before it passes its prime. And rather than face a fridge full of pigs in blankets and jalapeño poppers, it’s in everyone’s best interest to send leftovers home with guests. Bonus points for asking guests to bring their own reusable food containers.
Know What to Throw
If you’re throwing the party of the year and your house will be packed to the brim, we get that you probably don’t have more than a normal household supply of glasses, silverware, plates and bowls. So, in the case that you buy disposable items, check with your local recycling center to see what should go in your recycling, compost or trash bin. You can also check out this
Make it Easy to Recycle and Compost
Just like stadiums have introduced
Win Big This Year
When it comes to party sustainability, every yard counts. Even small choices, like digital invitations and BYO leftover containers, make a big difference in the eco-friendliness of your party. And hey, you may inspire your friends and family while you’re at it.
