Every year on June 5th, we celebrate World Environment Day, a global platform to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues. This year’s theme, “Land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience,” is a call to action to heal our planet’s precious ecosystems. So, how can you, as a couple planning your wedding, plan a sustainable wedding and connect your love story with this crucial message?
Weddings are joyous occasions, but they can also come with a significant environmental impact. By incorporating environmentally conscious practices, you can demonstrate your commitment to a healthy planet, starting with your very first chapter together. Here’s how you can weave the spirit of World Environment Day into your wedding, focusing on land restoration, desertification prevention, and building resilience against drought.
Venue with a View – and a Purpose
Consider a venue that actively supports land restoration. Many eco-lodges, farms, or botanical gardens dedicate themselves to sustainable land management practices. Choose a location committed to reforestation, soil health improvement, or water conservation. By supporting such businesses, you contribute directly to land restoration efforts.
Embrace the Local Bounty
Let your wedding menu reflect the seasonality and local bounty of British produce. Summer offers a vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Talk to your caterers about sourcing ingredients from local farms. This not only reduces your carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation but also supports local businesses that contribute to healthy agricultural practices.
Plan for Less Waste
Food waste is a significant environmental concern, and contributes to 6% of global CO2e emissions. Work with your caterers to create a menu that reflects your needs. Consider smaller, locally sourced portions and offer late-night snacks for peckish guests. Encourage guests to indicate dietary preferences beforehand, allowing for a more accurate headcount to avoid over-catering.
Compostable Favours
Skip the single-use, landfill-bound trinkets. Opt for favours that encourage land restoration and support local artisans. Seed packets with beautiful wildflowers (native to the UK!) are a lovely option. Guests can plant them at home, fostering local ecosystems and attracting pollinators. Honey from local beekeepers or small potted cacti (in peat free material) are other meaningful options.
Natural Beauty
Embrace the natural beauty of your surroundings. Decorate your venue with locally sourced flowers, branches, and greenery. This reduces your reliance on imported decorations and creates a romantic, organic ambience. Fairy lights add a touch of magic in the evening, while utilising natural light during the day minimises energy consumption.
Seating with a Purpose
Rent or borrow furniture crafted from sustainably sourced wood. You can also explore furniture made from recycled materials. These choices create a unique aesthetic and demonstrate your commitment to responsible resource use. Talk to your venue about the options they have.
Honeymoon for the Planet
Consider a honeymoon that actively supports land restoration projects. Eco-lodges in National Parks or wildlife sanctuaries allow you to experience nature’s beauty while supporting conservation efforts. Responsible travel companies can help you curate a honeymoon that minimises your environmental impact.
Measure and Reduce
The Sustainable Wedding Alliance’s Wedding Carbon Footprint Calculator is a fantastic tool to understand your wedding’s environmental impact. Input details like venue location, guest travel, and menu choices, and the calculator provides an estimate of your carbon footprint. This empowers you to identify areas for improvement.
Sharing Your Story
Your commitment to a sustainable wedding is an inspiration! Spread awareness by incorporating nature into your wedding website or invitations. You can also showcase your efforts on social media, encouraging others to consider a more mindful approach to celebrations.
Beyond the Wedding
Let your commitment to environmental well-being extend beyond your wedding celebration. Support local businesses at farmer’s markets and independent shops. Consider planting native flowers and shrubs in your garden, attracting pollinators and creating a mini-sanctuary for wildlife. Explore energy-efficient appliances for your new home and make conscious choices when it comes to everyday products.
By incorporating these tips, you can plan a beautiful wedding that celebrates your love story while nurturing the planet. Remember, every small step counts. Celebrate World Environment Day and your love in a way that fosters a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come.
Featured Image Photo by Pavel Neznanov on Unsplash
