Picnics are a wonderful summer pastime.  It’s a great opportunity to explore your community and support local agriculture.  The following are a few suggestions to help you plan a picnic that’ll have minimal impact on the environment.

1. Keep It Local

• Support local agriculture by shopping at a farmer’s market for your picnic food.  Choosing food that’s organic or locally grown reduces environmental impact and costs of transporting products.
• Try biking, walking or hiking to a nearby location.  By staying out of the car you create less green house emissions.  You’re also doing something good for your body!

2. Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

• Instead of buying paper plates and plastic utensils, use plates and utensils you have on hand. Yard sales and flea markets are excellent sources for great used reusable items for picnics.
• Cloth napkins are a great choice for a picnic.  They can be washed and used over and over.
• Pack fresh, organic fruit that is self-contained and “wraps” itself: apples, bananas, pears, peaches, and oranges. You need no additional packaging to keep them protected and fresh.

3. Explore Your Surroundings

• Observe and learn about plants and animals in your community. Pack a bug or bird book to identify creatures you might see, and allow kids to create their own journals to record the day.  Don’t forget your binoculars and magnifying glasses!
• Take a cloud walk. Clouds are indicators of all sorts of weather.   Understanding weather-related events can deepen your appreciation of the natural world.

4. Protect Yourself and Your Family

• When choosing sunscreens and insect repellents opt for products made with fewer chemicals and toxins.
• A lot of companies are making all-natural products that are DEET-free. Some brands to look for include Aubrey Organics, Logona, Kiss My Face and Burt’s Bees.

5. Pack It In, Pack It Out

• Protect natural surroundings by taking your trash with you when you leave.
• Make sure you take recyclables home and sort for your next curbside pick-up.
• Set a good example by picking up after those who won’t pick up after themselves.

Read more tips for living green at Gray Matters.