St. Patrick’s Day is all about celebrating all things green — but why stop at just wearing the color? This year, take the holiday as an opportunity to go green in a way that benefits both the planet and your wallet.
Whether you’re hosting a party, heading out to a parade, or just looking for small ways to be more eco-friendly, there are plenty of ways to embrace sustainability.
Keep reading for five ideas… though you might need more than just one day to make a big impact!
1. Choose Sustainable Party Supplies
If you’re planning a St. Patrick’s Day gathering, consider swapping out single-use party supplies for more eco-friendly options. Traditional decorations, plastic cups, and disposable plates contribute to landfill waste, but sustainable alternatives are widely available.
- Opt for reusable or compostable tableware: Instead of plastic cups and plates, use real dishes or compostable options made from bamboo or palm leaves.
- Choose recyclable decorations: Paper banners, fabric tablecloths, and reusable decor can cut down on waste. You can even DIY decorations using recycled materials.
- Skip the plastic party favors: Instead of plastic trinkets, give guests small plants, seed packets, or reusable tote bags.
By making these small changes, you can still enjoy a festive celebration without creating unnecessary waste.
2. Support Local Food Choices
Food is a huge part of any St. Patrick’s Day celebration, from traditional Irish dishes and pints of Guinness, to green-colored treats. However, the choices you make when grocery shopping or dining out can have a big impact on the environment.
- Buy from local farmers’ markets when possible: Supporting local agriculture reduces the carbon footprint of food transportation and helps your community thrive.
- Choose organic and sustainably sourced ingredients: Look for products that are grown without harmful pesticides and in a way that preserves soil health.
- Cut down on meat consumption: While corned beef is a classic St. Patrick’s Day dish, consider adding plant-based options like colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes with cabbage) or lentil shepherd’s pie to your menu.
Making conscious food choices helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports more sustainable food systems.
3. Reduce Energy Use at Home
With longer daylight hours arriving in March, St. Patrick’s Day is a great time to start cutting back on unnecessary energy consumption. Simple energy-efficient habits can add up to big savings on your utility bills and lower your carbon footprint.
- Unplug electronics: Many devices continue to draw power even when turned off, so unplug chargers, appliances, and gadgets when they’re not in use.
- Use LED light bulbs: If you’re lighting up your home for a St. Patrick’s Day party, opt for LED bulbs, which use at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
- Adjust your thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees in cooler weather can significantly reduce energy consumption.
These small changes not only help the planet but can also help you save money in the long run.
4. Invest in Solar Panels
One of the best long-term ways to go green is by making the switch to solar energy. St. Patrick’s Day is all about luck, but there’s nothing lucky about skyrocketing energy bills — solar power is a reliable and sustainable way to take control of your home’s energy use.
- Lower your energy bills: By generating your own electricity, you can significantly reduce (or even eliminate) your monthly utility costs.
- Take advantage of tax incentives: Many states, including Missouri and Kansas, offer solar incentives and rebates that make switching more affordable.
- Reduce your carbon footprint: Solar energy is a clean, renewable power source that helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
If you’re considering solar panel installation, now is a great time to get a solar panel quote near you and explore available options. With local solar installation experts ready to help, making the switch is easier than ever.
5. Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation
Many people head out to parades, pub crawls, or St. Patrick’s Day events, which often means increased traffic and fuel emissions. This year, opt for greener ways to get around:
- Carpool with friends: Sharing a ride reduces the number of vehicles on the road and cuts down on emissions.
- Use public transportation: If your city has a bus or train system, consider taking it instead of driving.
- Walk or bike: If the weather is nice, walking or biking to your destination is a fun and healthy way to reduce your carbon footprint.
By choosing more sustainable transportation options, you can enjoy the holiday while keeping the air cleaner.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Green Way
Going green for St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making small changes like using reusable decorations or bigger investments like installing solar panels, every step toward sustainability makes a difference. This holiday, let’s celebrate in a way that’s good for both the planet and future generations.
Ready to go green year-round? Explore solar energy options and see how making the switch can benefit your home and budget. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and receive your solar panel quotes. Discover why we’re the best solar company in Kansas City and how we can help you make the switch to clean, renewable energy with confidence.
We are a local company made up of KC natives with KC pride — in our city, and in our work. Which means we’ll always give you the best of ourselves.
And be sure to download our Free Solar Panel Buying Guide for more information.
We look forward to serving you!