I find it quite ironic that we spend many months of our year pining for the summer months so we can spend as much time as possible appreciating the beauty of our planet, and after we’re done, we’ve generated tremendous amounts of litter and garbage in the form of paper plates, plastic cups and utensils just from picnicking.
When we were kids, my brother and I were often assigned to clean up after large family picnics. I remember having to push down the used plates, cups, napkins and foil food containers filling the trash in order to make room for more. In these “no impact” days, I know too much about how long it takes such products to decompose in landfills to allow myself to utilize such items for a picnic that will last a few hours.
My idea of how to picnic has changed dramatically in the past decade. Now our picnics are a little more likes a Merchant Ivory film. Call it my love of English literature and many summers spent playing croquet in my grandmother’s yard. I have a gorgeous wooden basket that looks more like a travelling case. I use china plates, silverware and fabric napkins. I even own my own vintage croquet set which can be set up for a game or two after we dine alfresco. This may sound a little too high maintenance for you. I don’t mind, especially since my husband does the heavy lifting.
This kind of picnic does take a bit of forethought and involves bringing home used items to be cleaned or laundered. I must admit that it is really nice to know that many environmentally conscious companies are now producing biodegradable picnic ware which makes it possible to pull together the gear you need for a spontaneous outing. I’ve seen product made of bamboo, corn, sugar cane fibers, and various leaves. That’s what I call guilt free convenience.
When you’re picnicking this summer, “tread lightly on the earth” and seek out earth friendly options for picnics.
Junene Hrycko
Owner-Ecolibrium Cleaning