Eco-Friendly Raving

By: Yssy Wallace-Wells (@lub_earth)

As Spring is close on our heels, festival season is ramping up once again. It is important to remember that our actions during these events have an impact on our planet. 

Often people forget how easy it is to make sustainable choices. Here are a few ideas to keep our planet clean and green this festival season. 

1. Use eco-friendly sunscreen 

A lot of sunscreen products have harmful chemicals on their ingredients list. Not only are they harmful to our bodies, but they are also harmful to the planet we call home. Now I’m not saying don’t wear sunscreen! It is incredibly important to use especially at sunny summer festivals. Look for products with zinc or titanium dioxide or any “reef safe” sunscreen, which are non-toxic alternatives. 

2. Ditch glitter or switch to biodegradable 

Microplastics are the most common plastics found in our oceans, and glitter and face jewels are contributors. Instead of using plastic glitter switch to a biodegrade kind made from Eucalyptus tree cellulose. One popular brand is “Bio-glitter”. 

3. Bring a reusable water bottle, Camelbak, or hydration pack 

We all know that plastic water bottles are a huge issue for our planet. Most plastic bottles are not recycled and end up in our oceans and on our beaches. Some festivals have been transitioning to aluminum single-use bottles (which is awesome!) but I always bring my own. I absolutely love my green hydro flask and have brought it to lots of events with me but there are so many types of reusable water bottles on the market. Just make sure to look at the allowed items for your festival because sometimes they do not allow metal water bottles (I learned that the hard way). 

4. Carry your own cutlery/straw 

In my festival bag, I always pack my reusable utensils, one tupperware, and my reusable straw and I recommend you do too. It saves so much waste from the landfill and it is super easy to ask food vendors to put foodstuff in your container. 

5. Carpool or choose another ride-sharing option 

Almost every festival has a ridesharing or shuttle option, which you should take advantage of. Not only are you helping the planet but also helping your wallet too. If you don’t want to take a shuttle get your festival fam together and carpool. I know some of my favorite festival memories are the shenanigans on the road trips to the venues. 

6. Stay away from plastic wipes 

We all know portapotties are absolutely disgusting, especially three days in, but plastic wipes are the bane of Mother Earth’s existence. They take years to biodegrade for only one use! Instead of using plastic wet wipes use a biodegradable brand like Natracare or Kinder by Nature, take a flannel or other reusable cloth, or go without. 

7. Festival outfits 

Choose outfit pieces that you absolutely love and are going to wear again and again. Freedom rave wear is a great option to buy pieces that last a long time, are stunning, and are handmade in the United States. Other options are thrifting or upcycling clothes and even swapping with your festie besties for great looks. 

Thanks for reading and continue raving responsibly!