Question:
How can you reduce trash at a football party or tailgate?
Quick Answer:
Football gatherings can generate a surprising amount of waste from food packaging, cans, bottles, plates, napkins and decorations. You don’t have to eliminate disposable items entirely. A few simple choices before kickoff can make cleanup considerably easier when the game is over.
Game Day Generates More Than Touchdowns
September means football season, and whether you’re headed to a tailgate or inviting everyone over to watch the game, there’s usually food involved.
Lots of food.
And where there’s food, there are containers, wrappers, cans, bottles, napkins and everything else that seemed insignificant when the party started.
By the fourth quarter, one trash bag can turn into several.
Set Up Trash Before the Guests Arrive
Don’t wait until someone asks, “Where does this go?”
Make trash and recycling locations obvious before the party starts.
If guests know exactly where to put something, they’re far less likely to leave it sitting on a table or throw everything into the same container.
Skip Some of the Single-Serving Packaging
A giant bowl of chips produces less packaging than a dozen individual bags.
The same principle works for condiments, drinks and snacks. Buying or serving in larger quantities can reduce the number of wrappers and containers you’re dealing with later.
Don’t Forget the Food
Before scraping everything into the trash, consider what can actually be saved.
Pack leftovers while they’re still safe to eat. Send food home with guests. Freeze what makes sense.
Besides reducing waste, tomorrow-you may be extremely happy to discover leftover game-day food in the refrigerator.
Leave the Space Better Than You Found It
This matters even more when tailgating away from home.
Trash shouldn’t stay behind when your group leaves. Gather everything, use designated containers and make sure cups, cans, bags and food haven’t wandered underneath vehicles or across the parking area.
A good tailgate doesn’t leave evidence behind.
FAQs
What’s the easiest way to reduce party trash?
Start by reducing individually packaged foods and making disposal areas obvious to guests.
Should I wash disposable dishes before throwing them away?
No. But removing excess food can help reduce odors and mess.
How can I make cleanup easier?
Put trash containers where people are actually gathering instead of expecting everyone to search for them.