 The world is becoming more and more aware of green issues and initiatives. More and more individuals are actively and willingly choosing to live green lifestyles — that is a lifestyle that takes the earth and its future into consideration. The term “green” refers to eco-friendly or environmentally friendly characteristics. This can include the use of recycled, re-used or biodegradable goods, limit pollution, lessen or stop the use of non-renewable sources and more! There are many ways to incorporate this lifestyle choice into a wedding. Have a green wedding!
You can include every aspect of your wedding into your efforts to make it a green wedding— the clothing, rings, location, paper goods (announcements, invitations, save the date, etc.), flowers, honeymoon, foods, beverages and favors. Anything that comes to mind can be converted into a green or organic alternative. It is thought that “green” is always more expensive—in reality this is not always true. Green, environmental, eco-friendly, organic and biodegradable goods can be much more cost-effective than other products, especially long-term. You simply may have to put a little more effort and creativity into discovering what green choices you prefer. Fortunately, the green movement is becoming more popular and more individuals are choosing this lifestyle on a daily basis. As our focus shifts so does supply and demand—earth-friendly things are becoming more affordable and more accessible.
EnviroCitizen.org has made a list of some of the major components of most weddings along with some fabulous green alternatives :
- INVITATIONS - There are many ways to avoid the environmental impact wedding invitations can have. If you desire to have physical mail-outs, you can either use 100% recycled paper, partially recycled paper or tree-free papers. Non-toxic inks, such as soy ink, can be used. If you are willing to consider more drastic alternatives to paper mail-outs, try creating all of your invitations on your computer using customizable sites or which will send out all of your mail electronically for you!
- FLOWERS – Fresh cut flowers are not the most environmentally friendly choices. Consider using organic potted plants, dried flowers or silk flowers instead !
- RINGS - Gold mining takes a huge toll on the environment and creates immense amounts of mining waste. Precious stones are often called into question as consumers are becoming more aware of social issues connected with the way in which some are procured. Consider using recycled jewelry or heirloom rings instead of purchasing brand new jewelry. If you are purchasing a diamond, make sure that it is certifiably conflict-free.
- FAVORS – Instead of giving out traditional wedding favors, consider giving out earth-friendly favors like biodegradable seed packets, potted plants or donating the allocated favor budget to an environmental charity.
- HONEYMOONS - There are many ways to plan green honeymoons. One option is to refrain from traveling to exotic locations. If you are unwilling to stay nearby, consider an accredited green lodge or resort. Many travel companies offer eco-friendly travel plans, making it simple for honeymooners to plan the perfect green honeymoon with little effort.
EnviroCitizen.org has many wonderful green wedding ideas and supplies to help make your wedding day both beautiful and earth-friendly !
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