A good tailgate is all about eating, drinking, and cheering on your team. Not many people think about garbage, pollution, and landfills at their tailgate, but perhaps they should. Any time fans assemble for an organized sports event, what’s left behind are overflowing trash cans. But the worst offenders are college football games. For example, after Georgia hosted South Carolina last year, custodial staff collected more than 70 tons of trash—broken tents, abandoned grills, and scores of empty bottles.
How far are you willing to go to green up your tailgate? Being greener doesn’t have to mean going without, sometimes it just means choosing differently and taking home what you brought, some of it in the form of garbage or recycling. Since Big Green Head is all about easy, practical, ways to live greener, we will walk you through the most basic steps of throwing a greener tailgate. Not only will your guests not be inconvenienced, but they may even be grateful!
1. Water – Instead of expensive bottled water, provide a cooler of water and biodegradable or compostable cups.
2. Recycling – Set out recycle containers and mark them clearly. Pop up garbage and recycle bins are great for this. Line them with a clear, biodegradable bag.
3. Dinnerware – Disposable dinnerware is what most people will opt for, so make sure it’s biodegradable, compostable or at the very least made from recycled materials.
4. Condiments – Skip the individual packaging and buy in bulk ketchup, mustard, sugar and cream for coffee. If need be, put them in a reusable container.
5. Table Cloths – Bring a few old ones from home or invest in table coverings with your team logo. Then wipe them down at the end of the game and pack them back in your car. Try to avoid one-time use plastic coverings.
6. Beverages – Think past the single use containers such as bottles and cans. Perhaps your favorite tailgate beverage can be bought in bulk and served on tap.
7. Transportation – If you’re not hosting, take an adventure on public transportation or on your bike. To avoid having to carry too much, drop your food and beverage off at the hosting household the night before.
8. BYO Bag – Don’t bring your stuff in a bunch of plastic bags. Use all the cloth ones hanging on your door knob at home.
9. Buy Your Meat From a Farmer – This may not be convenient for everybody, but if you already visit a local farmers market, place a bulk order of sausage and burgers. You’ll be supporting the local economy and have one happy farmer on your hands!
10. Leave the area clean – Enough said!
