5 Musts for a Biofriendly 4th of July

Image by Edgar Zuniga Jr.

On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved and officially adopted, thus declaring the independence and separation of the United States of America from Great Britain. So, with the 4th of July only a few days away, Americans everywhere are getting ready to celebrate their Independence Day with picnics, parties and various other activities. But, whether you have already made your plans or not, here are 5 MUSTS for a biofriendly 4th of July:

1. Probably one of the most important things you can do on the 4th of July is get outside! Why? Well, not only is it good for you to get sun, vitamin D, fresh air, exercise, etc. but it also helps you renew your love of the great outdoors. As a kid, you probably spent a lot of time outside. I know I sure did!

There is nothing quite like enjoying the 4th of July with family and friends at a park, in the backyard or wherever you choose to relax and enjoy your day. And if your kids need some coaxing away from their electronic games, here are 10 tricks to get them outside. Hopefully you won’t need those tricks though.

One favor while you are outside…take some time to look around you, smell the flowers, do some bird-watching, lay on the grass and look at the clouds, etc.

2. Unplug! Turn your phone, computer and TV off. Unplug them as well, or turn off your power strips, so you aren’t wasting money on phantom electrical power.

You really shouldn’t be connected to your computer all day on any day of the week, but when it comes to a holiday – UNPLUG!

Take the opportunity to step away from your FB friends – I’m sure they’ll understand. Twitter won’t collapse without you for the day. Digg if you must first thing in the morning….but seriously, just unplug. The world will keep spinning….I promise.

Besides, not only will you save energy, but you save money and get yourself some much needed “you time”.

With the average American spending approximately 60 hours a month online, don’t you think it’s time to get outside?

3. Don’t even think about buying disposable party plates, cups and cutlery. Bring your own re-usable ones, or better yet, have everyone bring their own. That way each person/family is responsible for bringing their own dishes and thus cleaning up their own dishes.

Image by chatirygirl

It makes for a LOT less trash and an easier clean up. Don’t forget to bring some re-usable containers too – that way you won’t waste food, you can pack it up and have the leftovers later.

But if you really are looking for some eco-friendly plates and party-ware, these 100% recycled plates from Preserve come pretty highly recommended.

4. Think twice about getting up close and personal with a fireworks show. It’s a well-known fact that fireworks are known for causing not only harm to the environment, but to your health as well.

Over the years, larger fireworks shows have started offering more eco-friendly fireworks and pyrotechnics, but smaller ones more than likely won’t have that option. Either way, the safest way to watch fireworks (if you insist on going to a fireworks show) is to avoid being downwind from the fireworks show.

5. Just remember, while you might like to watch fireworks on the 4th of July, that doesn’t mean your pet likes to watch them too. Many pets get stressed out or panic at the loud noises produced by fireworks going off. In order to ensure your pet doesn’t get overly stressed out, or even attempt to run away, help keep a safe environment for them all day long and especially while fireworks are going off.

Image by Right About Me

A few tips I have personally found to work well: turning up the tv, sitting and relaxing with your pet and keeping a regular schedule that day. Ensuring your doors and windows are closed/locked and your dog is safely inside is a good idea too. Here are a few more smart 4th of July safety tips for your pet.

So…I’d love to hear what you have planned to make it a safe, happy and biofriendly 4th of July! Here are some fireworks you can enjoy in the meantime – Happy Independence Day America!