 EnviroCitizen.org defines a green wedding as a wedding that is planned through positive environmental planning. Consumers are beginning to realize that traditional weddings can have a huge impact on the environment. Small details, such as the rings or invitations, can actually play a big role in the creation of huge amounts of waste! If you feel that a green wedding is the right decision, we suggest that you do a bit of research and try to make the best decisions for you and the Earth. Below are a few of EnviroCitizen.org’s favorite suggestions to help you plan a memorable, eco-friendly wedding.
RINGS - Did you know that mining enough gold for a plain wedding band can cause 20 tons of mine waste? This is definitely quite a significant amount of waste! A popular alternative to using new gold rings is to choose earth-friendly silver bands instead. Another option is to purchase a pre-used wedding band, recycled gold wedding band or to use an heirloom band. These bands will still signify the new bond between you and your spouse, but will be much friendlier on the environment.
DRESSES - The wedding dress may be one of the most significant pieces of a wedding. It is estimated that the average bride spends around $900 on her wedding dress. However, traditional dresses tend to not be the most environmentally friendly. If you are determined to buy a new wedding dress, search for a dress that is made of organic, renewable materials such as organic cotton or bamboo. If you have a family member or friend that is good with a needle and thread, try to take advantage of their skills. This way you can choose organic fabric and make the dress yourself, maintaining a lower carbon footprint that dresses produced in factories.
FLOWERS – Flowers are certainly one of the most eye-catching components in most weddings, the result of hours of planning, hundreds of flowers and a hefty sum. However, many consumers have never been told of the negative impact these traditional flower arrangements have on the environment. Using massive amounts of fresh cut flowers is not only wasteful, but it cuts the lives of these flowers short; preventing them from being able to fulfill the many wonderful purposes they have. Traditional flowers are also often treated with chemical pesticides and preservatives when grown and used for floral arrangements. Consider using organic flowers or even local, native potted plants. Potted plants benefit the environment and last longer. These plants can serve a dual purpose, decorating the wedding/reception and then being given to guests as favors. If you are willing to avoid fresh cut flowers, consider dried arrangements or reused silk flowers.
FAVORS – Wedding favors are one of the smaller details in a wedding, however, they can carry a hefty price tag. Instead of giving out traditional wedding favors, consider donating the money set aside in your favors budget to your favorite charity! If you would prefer to give out favors, try to gift something renewable. Potted plants, packets of your favorite wildflowers or bulbs are all beautiful, eco-friendly alternatives.
WEDDING LOCATION - Attempt to find a central location for your wedding that is easy to reach and close to the majority of your guests. This will cut down on travel costs and emissions, which will benefit the environment and your guests. City weddings are considered to be more environmentally friendly because less energy per capita is consumed in the city and public transportation options are abundant.
HONEYMOONS - There are many ways to go green for your honeymoons. One option is to avoid exotic location and stay in the country where you can still visit beautiful locations and spend time with your spouse. If you would prefer to travel a bit further, consider an accredited green lodge or resort. Many travel companies offer eco-friendly travel plans to a variety of wonderful destinations.
If you’re hoping to have the perfect, memorable wedding, considering making it green! EnviroCitizen.org believes that the beautiful, eco-friendly details of your wedding and the wonderful way in which they benefited the environment will make for some truly unique, lasting memories for everyone involved.
|
