5 Simple Tips for a More Sustainable Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and, unfortunately, a lot of waste. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By making a few thoughtful changes, you can enjoy a memorable holiday feast while reducing your environmental footprint. Here’s how to host a Thanksgiving that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your loved ones.

1. Plan Your Portions Thoughtfully

Food waste is one of the most significant environmental challenges during the holidays. According to the EPA, 30–40% of the U.S. food supply is wasted each year, with much of it occurring in households. It’s easy to overestimate how much food you’ll need, but being mindful of portions can make a significant difference.

Use a Portion Planner: Tools like the EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge calculator or general portion guidelines can help you estimate servings. For instance, plan for 1.25 pounds of turkey per person if you want leftovers, or 0.75 pounds per person if you don’t.

Think About Leftovers: Leftovers can be part of the joy of Thanksgiving — if they’re eaten. Plan meals in advance to use up extra food, like turkey sandwiches, sweet potato pancakes, or a hearty stuffing casserole. Store them in reusable containers to avoid waste from plastic wrap or foil.

Compost Scraps: Compost vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and other organic scraps to keep them out of the landfill. Food in landfills produces methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO2, so diverting organic waste can have a big impact.

By planning portions wisely, you’re not just cutting down on waste — you’re helping to tackle one of the leading contributors to climate change.

2. Source Local and Seasonal Ingredients

Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance, and what better way to honor that than by choosing foods that are both local and fresh? Sourcing locally also reduces your meal’s environmental impact. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the average meal travels over 1,500 miles from farm to plate, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.

Shop at Farmers’ Markets: Local farmers’ markets are a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce. Stock up on squash, pumpkins, cranberries, and other fall staples that were likely harvested just days ago.

Reduce Food Miles: By buying local, you’re cutting down on the carbon emissions associated with transporting food over long distances. This also means your food will be fresher and taste better.

Choose Sustainable Proteins: If you’re serving meat, look for pasture-raised turkeys from local farms. For a more eco-friendly option, consider plant-based proteins like lentil loaf or a festive stuffed squash.

Eating seasonally and locally not only supports your community but also connects your meal to the rhythms of the earth.

3. Swap Disposables for Reusables

It’s tempting to turn to disposable plates, napkins, and utensils for convenience, but these items contribute significantly to landfill waste. The EPA reports that plastic and paper products account for nearly 30% of municipal solid waste in the U.S. Instead, elevate your table settings with reusable options:

Use Real Dishware: Break out your dinnerware, even if it’s mismatched. If you don’t have enough for everyone, consider borrowing from friends, renting, or exploring second-hand stores for affordable options.

Cloth Napkins Over Paper: Cloth napkins are not only more sustainable but also add a touch of elegance to your table. Choose neutral or fall-inspired colors to complement your decor.

Reusable Containers for Leftovers: Ditch the single-use plastic wrap and opt for glass containers or beeswax wraps to store leftovers.

By swapping disposables for reusables, you’re not just reducing waste — you’re creating a more thoughtful, welcoming atmosphere for your guests.

4. Incorporate Plant-Based Dishes

Animal agriculture is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 14.5% of global emissions, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). While turkey might be the centerpiece of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, adding plant-based options to your menu can significantly lower your meal’s environmental impact.

Hearty Alternatives: Consider dishes like lentil loaf, roasted acorn squash stuffed with quinoa and cranberries, or a wild mushroom and herb pie. These options are filling, flavorful, and festive.

Dairy-Free Sides: Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing can easily be made plant-based with substitutes like oat milk or vegan butter.

Celebrate Veggies: Elevate vegetables to the spotlight with dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup, spiced roasted carrots, or a vibrant beet and orange salad.

Even incorporating one or two plant-based dishes makes your meal more inclusive, ensuring there’s something for everyone while reducing your carbon footprint.

5. Decorate with Natural Elements

Thanksgiving decor doesn’t have to come from a store. The natural beauty of the season provides endless inspiration for your table and home.

Use What’s Around You: Pinecones, dried leaves, and branches can make beautiful, biodegradable decorations. Arrange them in a simple centerpiece or scatter them across your table for a rustic look.

Seasonal Produce as Decor: Pumpkins, gourds, and squash do double duty as decor and ingredients. After Thanksgiving, cook them up or compost them to eliminate waste.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme sprigs add a fragrant and elegant touch to place settings or centerpieces.

Natural decorations not only reduce plastic waste but also help create a cozy, authentic atmosphere that feels more connected to the season.

Sustainability Is a Practice, Not Perfection

Making Thanksgiving more sustainable doesn’t mean giving up the traditions you love — it’s about approaching them with intention. By planning portions, sourcing local ingredients, and reducing waste, you can host a celebration that reflects your gratitude for the planet as well as the people around your table.

Remember, sustainability isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about making small, thoughtful choices that add up to a big impact over time.

This Thanksgiving, let gratitude guide you — not just for what’s on your table but for the earth that made it possible.