Stay Sustainable on Labour Day Weekend

September 1, 2020

Many of you may have planned weekend cottage trips, staycations, or family get-togethers (safely, of course) for labour day weekend. Although vacations are a time to relax and let go, let’s all make an effort to remain sustainable while doing so! 

Here are some small things we can do together that make a big impact. 

Pack with reusable containers: 
When preparing food for your weekend meals, consider skipping the plastic ziploc bags and choose a reusable container instead.  

Source locally:
Support your local farmers and help sustain your local community even on vacation. Plan your meals ahead of time and take advantage of the Ontario options near you. See this post here to learn about what crops are in-season at farmers’ markets, and order your first box of locally sourced grass-fed and pasture-raised meat from NIKU Farms today. 

Skip The Single-Use Stuff: 
Preparing for big meals and guests can feel overwhelming and buying single-use tableware is always convenient. But it comes at the expense of the environment! Most single-use items like cutlery, cups, and plates are made from a type of plastic called expanded polystyrene, otherwise known as styrofoam. Styrofoam cannot be reused, is incredibly toxic to the environment when burned, and takes over 500 years to decompose in a landfill.

We urge you to think twice about buying styrofoam cups and plastic cutlery when you’re out shopping for the weekend – and switch to your more sustainable options such as your original tableware or compostable paper options. 

Carpool Together: 
Consider carpooling (within your social circle) to your destination and make the most fuel-efficient journey possible. If any of you happen to drive a hybrid or electric car, opt for that vehicle instead. Bonus: carpooling saves parking space too! 

If you aren’t taking any long road trips, consider biking around the neighborhood or to the local store instead of a quick drive there and back. It adds some beautiful fresh air to your daily routine and you get some good exercise while you’re at it. 

We hope some of these tips have inspired you to stay sustainable over the weekend, and wish you all a fun and safe time!