Food & Drink
Catering for a large group can be challenging, but while that supermarket food delivery full of single-use plastic might be convenient, it isn’t the most planet friendly.
Prior to the weekend, take a trip to your local bulk food store and stock up on snacks, nuts and any dried goods you might need such as pasta or rice.
Where possible, source local, seasonal food. Is there a local catering company that can come in and cook for you all one evening? Can you get fresh fruit and vegetables from a local farmer’s market or order a delivery from Abel & Cole, Riverford, or Oddbox? Is there a local baker for picking up fresh bread? It might take a little extra organising, but sourcing locally helps to reduce the miles your food has to travel and is also more likely to come loose and without plastic. (And often tastes better too!)
If you’re planning to dine out, book a table at a sustainable restaurant.
Party planning is thirsty work, so when it comes to drinks look for beverages that also give back to charity, are made with organic ingredients, wonky fruit and veg or food waste, and are in widely recycled non-plastic packaging. We love Karma Cola for soft drinks – see our ethical drinks guide for more ideas.
And finally, when it comes to serving your food and drink, avoid disposable plastic and paper cups, plates and cutlery and treat your guests to the real deal. It might mean more washing up, but it will mean a lot less damaging waste for the planet.