As the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like getting back to nature with an alfresco dining experience. Studies show that, in the UK people enjoy at least three picnics a year, amounting to approximately 94 million picnics annually! [1]
However, picnics can produce a lot of rubbish and disposable waste. Because we don’t want our outdoor activities to harm the environment, here’s how to have a zero-waste picnic!
Start with Equipment
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Choose Reusable Items
One of the easiest ways to reduce waste is by choosing reusable items. Instead of disposable plates, cups, and cutlery, bring along multiple use alternatives. Here are some suggestions:
- Reusable Plates and Utensils: Invest in a set of stainless steel or bamboo plates and utensils. Or if they are sturdy enough, take your regular knives, forks and plates from home.
- Cloth Napkins: Replace paper napkins and kitchen roll with cloth ones. Then you can wash and reuse them.
- Reusable Cups and Bottles: Bring your own water bottles and cups to avoid single-use plastics.
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Pack Smart
When packing for your picnic, consider using containers that minimise waste:
- Glass Jars: Use your leftover sauce and jam jars for storing salads, snacks, and beverages.
- Beeswax Wraps: A sustainable alternative to clingfilm or sandwich bags for sandwiches and snacks. By using beeswax wraps, a single household can prevent approximately 1.5 kg of plastic waste annually [2] and can save approximately £50 per year on disposable plastic storage purchases [3].
- Reusable Bags: Use cloth tote bags or wicker baskets to carry your picnic essentials rather than plastic bags.
Food Choices
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Go Homemade
Preparing food at home allows you to control the ingredients and packaging. Here are some zero-waste picnic food ideas:
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: When choosing fruit and veg from the supermarket, use loose versions rather than packaged.
Cut it up yourself, instead of buying pre-cut in plastic packaging.
Elevate your picnic with seasonal produce, like blackberries you can pick from surrounding bushes! For inspiration on what to forage, check out our blog post, Seasonal Foraging You Can Do in the UK!
- Homemade Snacks: Bake cookies, cereal bars, or muffins at home rather than buy shop bought versions, which will nearly always come in plastic wrapping.
- DIY Sandwiches: Rather than shop made, plastic packaged sandwiches, make sandwiches using fresh ingredients. Wrap them in beeswax wraps or tin foil, which is recyclable.
- Make a Delicious Soft Drink: Grab a glass bottle with a pop top, and you can make a delicious and fresh soft drink to take with you rather than a fizzy drink in plastic bottles. A great example is this zingy Rhubard Cordial. Add fresh mint from your garden to feel ultra fancy.
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Buy in Bulk
If you need to purchase items like grains, nuts, dried fruits, granola, and popcorn, consider buying in bulk to reduce packaging waste. Dispense these into your own containers for the picnic to avoid single-use plastics. This approach is also usually more cost-effective than buying little and often from the supermarket.
Waste Management
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Bring a Rubbish Bag
Even with careful planning, some waste might be inevitable. Bring a reusable rubbish bag to collect any litter and ensure it’s disposed of properly.
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Compost
If you have access to a compost bin, bring along a small container to collect food scraps, such as fruit peels, eggshells, and even used tea bags. Composting helps reduce waste and enriches the soil.
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Leave No Trace
The principle of “Leave No Trace” is crucial for preserving natural spaces. Make sure to clean up thoroughly and leave the area as you found it.
A zero-waste picnic is not only enjoyable but also a great way to do your bit for the environment. Happy picnicking!
Need some inspiration for your next picnic? Check out these delicious recipes using fruit and veg that are around at the moment: 4 Seasonal Spring Superfoods .
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