Easter is traditionally a celebration of rebirth in the spirit of springtime rejuvenation. What holiday could be more appropriate for an environmentally friendly celebration? Try the following tips if you plan on celebrating a green Easter.
For the Easter Egg Hunt
Try EcoEggs! These fake eggs are made from 100 percent corn and are fully compostable, yet still hardy enough to be used every Easter. This is a great biodegradable alternative to plastic or real eggs for hunts.
Sweet ‘n Healthy
Filling Easter baskets or eggs with granola and carrot sticks would be great if no one in your family has a sweet tooth. However, in the likely event that this is not true, you can still provide some sweet treats without a cavity-inducing overload of candy. Try interspersing chocolate-covered fruit bites such as pomegranate seeds or blueberries, often available at Trader Joe’s. Yogurt covered nuts are also a fun but nourishing treat. Peeps marshmallows are a common Eastern staple, but if you really want to extend the healthy treat basket, look up recipes for making your own homemade marshmallows that involve less sugar and artificial sweetener.
Decorate Green
In the spirit of springtime, Easter decorations should be made with the Earth in mind. Color and shred used paper to create fake grass or basket filling. EcoEggs also makes compostable, corn-based fake grass in both plastic and paper forms. As for the basket itself, be creative! Try to find old containers around the house that can be fashioned to hold your Easter goodies – you’ll be both eco-friendly and unique.
Embrace the Easter Spirit
Easter represents many things, one of which is the rebirth of life in spring. Take advantage of the warmer weather and do something active outside; find a local hike, take a bike ride somewhere new, or simply have a picnic in the park with family or friends.
Eco-Easter Eating!
If you’re planning on a traditional Easter food dinner, challenge yourself by creating meals with organic or local ingredients. Hot Cross Buns can be made at home, while savory meats like organic lamb and ham can be found at specialty grocery stores and garnished with in-season fruits.
-Kelisha Menon