8 Tips for a Sustainable Summer

Summer in Australia is made for gatherings. Backyard BBQs, beach picnics, Christmas in the sun, and long afternoons with friends. But it’s also a time when party waste increases through single-use tableware to leftover food, and excess packaging.

This year, small changes can make a big difference. Here are eight straightforward ways to make your summer events more sustainable while still keeping them easy and enjoyable.

1. Choose reusables over disposables

Single-use plates, cups, and cutlery might be convenient, but they create a lot of unnecessary waste. Wherever possible, use real and reusable crockery and glassware. If you don’t have enough, borrow from friends or hire a reusable party kit.

If reusables aren’t an option, choose compostable items made from materials like bamboo or sugarcane, and make sure they’re disposed of correctly. Set up clearly labelled bins so guests know what goes where. It’s a simple way to reduce what ends up in landfill.

2. Plan menus around seasonal produce

Australian-grown summer fruit and vegetables are fresh, abundant, and affordable. Buying local reduces transport emissions and supports Aussie growers. Check out your local farmers' markets or try an online delivery service like Farmers Pick, which rescues imperfect food rejected by supermarkets.

When hosting, aim for balanced menus with a mix of plant-based and meat options. It will lower the overall footprint of your meal and reduce leftovers.

Tip: Don't forget the reusable shopping bags!

3. Keep drinks low-waste

Drinks can generate a surprising amount of waste, especially with single-use bottles and cans. Use large drink dispensers or jugs instead of single-serve packaging. Provide reusable cups and avoid straws altogether (we all know the paper ones suck anyway!)

Most cans and bottles can be recycled via your home recycling bins, or take them to a Return & Earn location and earn 10c on each one (handy pocket money for the kids!)

Choose local wine, beer, or spirits where possible (can you tell I'm all about supporting Aussie brands?!) Some distilleries and wineries even offer refillable options when you bring back your keg or bottle. Check out The Brewship, Wolf & Woman Distillery and Glou Wines.

4. Decorate Simply

Keep decorations simple and reusable. Fresh foliage, native flowers, or herbs in jars add colour without creating waste (and can be composted once you're finished with them).

Reuse what you already own, check your local op shop or marketplace for second-hand decorations to buy or borrow before buying anything new.

Avoid balloons, glitter, and other plastic décor that will only end up in landfill at the end of your gathering.

5. Rethink gift giving

If your event includes gift exchanges, encourage meaningful and low-waste options. Experiences, local products, or handmade items are all thoughtful choices.

When wrapping, choose recyclable paper, fabric wraps, or reusable gift bags. Avoid shiny or glittery finishes that can’t be recycled.

Tip: Try a themed Secret Santa, such as local, second-hand, or handmade to keep it simple and sustainable.

6. Manage food waste

Food waste increases over the summer, especially around Christmas, and rotting food in landfills produces huge emissions (which aren't great for the planet). Plan portions carefully, store leftovers promptly, and share extras with guests.

Composting is one of the easiest ways to reduce your event's footprint. If you don’t have a compost bin, check if your council collects food waste or use a sharing app like Peels to connect with someone who does.

Tip: Encourage guests to bring a container for leftovers.

7. Stay cool without wasting energy

Keep gatherings comfortable using fans, shade, and natural airflow instead of running air conditioning all day. Set up marquees or umbrellas if you’re entertaining outdoors.

8. Purchase The Sustainable Occasion's "The Guide" for more tips & tricks

The Sustainable Occasion's "The Guide" will help you not only plan your event but do so in an eco-ethical and purposeful way. Learn how to reduce your event's environmental footprint and celebrate like you love the Earth!

Covering topics such as the event planner process, budgets, venue and supplier selection, waste removal, and gifts, The Guide provides over 50 pages full of tips and planning tools that will fast become your go-to resource for sustainable event management.

Available in paperback or e-book format.

A Simpler, More Sustainable Summer

Sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of planning and using what you already have, it’s possible to host great summer events with far less waste.

These small steps - choosing reusables, buying local, managing food, and simplifying décor - make a real difference over time. They'll save you money, reduce landfill, set a positive example for others, and help you celebrate like you love the Earth!