The Conscious Clipper
Welcome to this year’s first installment of the Conscious Clipper: your home world news and relevant issue that affects us right here in Norwell.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, let’s take a look at some strategies to be more eco-friendly--and save you money-- this holiday season.
We all love Thanksgiving dinner--from the pies to the turkey to the stuffing (obviously the crown jewel of the table), there is something for everyone to enjoy. But what happens to all that food that our stretch pants can’t make room for? According to Market Watch, Americans will waste $293 million dollars this year at Thanksgiving--and that’s just for turkey alone! Compound that with all of the other dishes (plus that fruit cake that your Aunt brings that everyone pretends to eat), and we’re practically drowning landfills with holiday goodies. Yum.
Instead of dooming everything to the can, send guests home with leftovers to reduce the amount thrown out. Try using reusable containers to dole out the leftovers instead of single use plastic products that have the potential to leak nasty chemicals into Dad’s famous stuffing (a crime against humanity, if you ask us). Glass is best, but anything that can be reused will work.
If food is overbought, like veggies or fruits, be sure to freeze the surplus to use for smoothies or juices. While you’re at it, be sure to check the fridge before the shop to avoid buying duplicate ingredients. That way, there will be room in your fridge or freezer to store any extra food that guests couldn’t take.
Also, make sure you or your parents communicate with friends and relatives about who is bringing which dishes, because there simply is a limit to the number of pumpkins pies one can eat. Carefully plan the amount of food needed day of, or else face the reality of cold Turkey sandwiches with your December gingerbread houses.
Try to use every part of the bird! Bones and assorted giblets (heehee, we said giblets) are great for making turkey stock for soup later on.
That being said, ever notice how hot the house gets when the oven is being used? Try giving your heater a rest and let good ol’ Tom warm up the house while he’s cooking away.
Thanksgiving is a time of remembrance and gratitude. To say ‘thank-you’ for what you have, consider donating clothes that have you have outgrown to a family in need or a clothing drive. A great way to reduce clothing waste as well as give new life to old clothes.
From everyone here at the Navigator, we hope you have a safe, loving, and eco-friendly Thanksgiving!
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The Conscious Clipper is written by Rose Hansen
