Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better time to go over a few simple reminders to get the most out of your provisions – and the least amount of waste. The bulleted list below includes several handy steps to ensure a successful, sustainable Thanksgiving celebration (or two) year after year.

• If you are traveling a far distance, consider purchasing carbon emissions offsets. You can do it online for cheap from a number of organizations.
• Go local! Aim to source all of your food, including your turkey or turkey alternative, from within a 100-mile radius of your celebration spot. It might be easier than you think!
• It’s not too late to decorate! We have three easy-to-make recycled Thanksgiving decorations that you can get started on right away.
• Strongly mull over using your own plates and silverware (or look into renting reusable dinnerware) instead of opting for throwaway paper or Styrofoam plates and plastic utensils.
• As well, opt for cloth napkins instead of single-use paper napkins.
• Decorate your front door with a natural wreath of flowers, twigs and greens, as opposed to a store-bought fake that you can take out annually.
• Choose a table runner instead of a full tablecloth when preparing for your feast. They are less likely to get stained, which means fewer trips to the dry cleaners.
• Get in the spirit with natural light. Dinner by candlelight is a great ambiance touch, and it lessens your dependence on electricity.
• Make it easy to recycle. Keep bins out in plain sight during your celebration. Your guests are more likely to recycle if you make the option obvious.
• Stock up on green cleaning products to make your home sparkle after the crowds have gone and the feast has been cleared.

(Note: As you prep beforehand and clean up afterward, pull this list up on your smartphone or tablet to avoid using unnecessary paper.)