Everything you need to have an earth-friendly summer picnic

Summer is fast approaching, bringing with it a wealth of outdoor activities that maximize every moment: Perhaps you’ll gather your women’s circle for an awe-inspiring waterfall hike, go on a healthy road trip, or take your workout to the beach so you can be outside as much as possible. Or, instead of planning an excursion, you can simply gather in your local green space to socialize with friends and eat under the sun. That alfresco life is low-key and requires little planning—so, hey, it’s not too late to get together a picnic for this Memorial Day weekend. And since they are partly about basking in the beauty of Mother Nature, it’s important to make sure your outdoor shindig leaves little impact on her health.

Since picnics are partly about basking in the beauty of Mother Nature, it’s important to make sure your outdoor shindig leaves little impact on her health.

So, I’ve rounded up everything you will need for a successful picnic, with the added bonus of sustainable replacements for items that would usually create waste, like single-use plastics and paper. Whip up some of your favorite 15-minute dishes, pack your picnic basket, and get ready to soak up the sunshine.

Check out the 8 earth-friendly picnic items below.

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Calhoun & Co. Bananas! Woven Throw Blanket, $108

A picnic essential, this banana-print throw is a summery and comfortable way to mark your territory.

In charge of dessert? Whip up these decadent vegan pops or these low-sugar treats.