As Easter approaches, it is time for all the candy consumption and crafting shenanigans. The global Easter market is expected to generate $24 billion this year, and nearly $3 billion is spent on just candy alone. As we celebrate this holiday weekend, here are a few things we can do to reduce the waste and make the planet a safer place.
Switch Out Plastic Products
Substitute Eco-eggs for plastic eggs. They are 100 percent recyclable, BPA-free, non-toxic, and made with natural dyes. You can also use wooden or wool-felted eggs. If you must use plastic eggs, make sure you store them afterward for reuse.
Opt For Greener Grass
Plastic production has doubled during the past 50 years, with 380 million tons ending in waste each year, killing about 1.1 million seabirds and animals each year. Rather than filling your Easter egg baskets with shreds of plastic grass, consider using shredded recycled paper or some leaves from the environment.
Second-hand Easter Basket
Purchase your Easter basket from your local second-hand store. If you feel like being artistic, you can also make your own using household items such as buckets, umbrellas, and rain boots to avoid creating plastic waste.
Try Natural Dyes for Easter Eggs
Most store-bought dyes contain chemicals that will infect freshwater if they come into contact with waterways. To prevent this, try natural dyes instead using vegetables, fruits, and spices.
Compost the Eggshells
Easter is one of the worst times for eggshells to be lying around. Eggshells can be composted, so don’t throw them out. If you don’t have a compost system at home, they can also be crushed and used as fertilizer for your garden.
Gift an Experience
The Easter festivities often include baskets filled with goodies such as toys and candies. Rather than gifting temporary things, give your loved ones something memorable, like a trip or a fun experience that will last a lifetime and prevent any holiday waste from accumulating.