Mardi Gras is easily one of the favorite times of the year for locals and tourists along the Gulf Coast. In this season of plenty, great food, drinks and beads are the main themes for fun.

But it can also become a very wasteful event. As we approach the 2020 Mardi Gras season, keep the following tips in mind to make it an eco-friendly celebration.

  1. When you yell “Throw me something, mister,” be sure to save your haul, then give the non-consumables back for the next year. Find a krewe member and give them any beads, stuffed animals, balls or plastic cups you do not plan to use or keep. It will help them save money on next year’s festivities, and prevent items from ending up in the landfill.
  2. Use the stuffed animals you collected as play toys for your children or grandchildren, and even your fur babies. Your local emergency station may like to have stuffed animals on hand to help soothe children during a stressful situation. Animal shelters appreciate them, too, using them for dogs and cats awaiting adoption.
  3. Share extra candy with your co-workers so it doesn’t get wasted and thrown out. Sharing is caring, after all!

Enjoy the season of plenty – but please take measures to eliminate waste whenever possible. Laissez les bons temps rouler!