SEBASTOPOL, California.  In a new and growing trend to tread more lightly on the earth, neighborhood groups have started adding a new dimension to community gatherings.  No trash. 

In year's past, a standard backyard or block party item on the To-Do list was the purchse of paper places, plastic utensils and styrofoam drinking cups.  No more in enviornmentally conscious Sebastopol.    Neighbors around High Street host an annual block party and advise all antendees to bring their own, reusable eating utensils.  They set aside an area with common bus tubs for partygoes to wash dishes and recommend everyone bring their own cup for punch, beer, etc.

 A good idea indeed.

Neighborhood organizers have noticed a significantly less amount of clean up required.  Attendees have brought bamboo plates, carved wooden bowls and goblets, ceramic eating utensils and other innovative means of reducing waste.

This, combined with family-style eating bowls for cleaner service, and self-service juice from glass vats or punch bowls, kegs, and even plateless appetizers will surely start a precedent in your neighborhood. 

So, next time you invite a crowd over, keep this in mind, it will enhance the asthetic flavor of your party and do our Mother Earth a good turn. 

For more info on this and other sustainable community-building innovations, contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .