Meghan Oakley-Henning has always been fascinated with human behavior and psychology. She posits that most of our decision making is set on default. If challenged to think a little differently from our prescribed ways, could we change our behavior? 

When Meghan decided to host a casual gathering for 30 people this past summer, she felt it was the perfect opportunity to throw a fun AND sustainable party AND test her theory on human behavior. 

Meghan first shared two roadblocks to her green dream party plan -

1. Planning takes more time: for busy folks extra planning may seem like a no-go right from the start

2. Having faith that guests will do the right thing: Meghan worried that guests would feel uncomfortable or annoyed at needing to separate their reusable stuff from disposable. 

Despite her concerns, Meghan plowed ahead. With a little extra planning and clear directions for attendees, Meghan’s guests resisted the urge to toss everything in the trash as we are all pretty well programmed to do these days. With simple signage and encouragement, attendees did just fine. Meghan's thoughtful planning made it easy on her guests to “do the right thing.” Taking out the after party trash was a lot easier too!

Here are a few tips from Meghan to throw a cleaner, greener, sustainable soiree!

1. Do a little work ahead: deciding what food and drinks you’re going to serve is a part of any party planning. Considering what to serve refreshments on, what cups for beverages etc…, and keeping cleanup simple, always takes some thought. If your goal is to use reusable whenever possible, then let that help inform your food and beverage plan. For example, offer only hand-held foods to avoid the need for utensils or serve soup in eclectic coffee mugs rather than throw away bowls.

2. Next is execution: Simple signs posted over trash, recycle and compost receptacles will get folks attention and avoid a “one bag fits all” trash mentality. Set out a well placed bowl to collect utensils that can be washed and used again. If you do use single-use plastic cups, have guests initial their cup with a marker to avoid tossing the “mystery owner" cups away after one use. These simple suggestions will get your guests thinking about their behavior at least in front of others! 

Meghan’s party was a success. Everyone had a good time and “did the right thing.” Faith restored. 

More ideas for next level sustainable parties:

• Use real tablecloths and napkins vs paper or plastic. It reduces a lot of waste and also elevates your party. 

• Enlist a friend or two to help spread the word on proper disposal during the party. You are not alone in wanting to reduce!

• Don’t be shy about asking or accepting help washing up reusable dishes. Most folks want to help and doing dishes is a great way to have more one-on-one conversations. 

• Meghan would like to purchase or acquire reusable dishes and beverageware that work well for outside entertaining - think lighter serving dishes and plates. 

• A reusable Party-in-a-Box for the neighborhood? STAY TUNED IN 2027 for MORE ON THIS!