Why is it that we recycle during the week, but at a party, everything gets tossed into one big garbage bag? Is it that we fear inconveniencing our guests, don't want to seem too earthy, or just don’t think twice in the rush of things? I bet many hosts would welcome recycling help with all the other tasks they need to tend to at party time. So if I see the pile of plastic and/or glass mounding high among the rest of the trash, I often offer to help separate them quickly. I find my small efforts are usually very much appreciated. I don’t want to imply that you should start washing your host’s plastic plates for reuse if he or she says, "Oh, just throw it all in there." Just offer your help initially to plant the seed, and then leave it alone if the response is not favorable.

But yes, it's in these situations that we especially need to separate plastic, paper, aluminum, glass and so on.  This is the time when consumption is higher than normal, and therefore lots of recyclables are mindlessly discarded. The environment will benefit just as much as our children from the consistency of our actions. Better yet, how about forgoing the recycling bin altogether at party time by using the “real stuff” that can be washed and reused? What a fabulous party setting it would be with fabric tablecloths and napkins, and real dishes, flatware and glasswear; it could be stunning!

Okay, I know… talk about inconvenient. But if we don’t make a change now, we will most definitely be inconvenienced in the long run. It’s time to dust off the glasswear and china. And if you still opt for plastic all around, why not throw it in the sink, wash it up and have it available for your next party? So before your next celebration, ask yourself what your party plan will be and follow through. Your guests may appreciate it more than you know!