#6 Use Re-usables. As many plates, cups, napkins, and utensils as possible should be reusable, and if not reusable, compostable and/or recyclable. If you can’t use proper dishes and utensils, use dishwasher-safe, renewable products from Preserve or Bambu that can be found in your local markets. Donate cloth napkins that you’ve made from old clothing or purchased from eco-sites like ReUseIt.com. Explore the possibility of renting dinnerware from a local restaurant. Consider donating to Green Muslims’ IftaRRR initiative, partnering with area masajid to reduce waste generated during Ramadan iftar celebrations. Use beverages in aluminum cans and glass bottles: they are more easily recycled than plastic. Serve foods that can be easily eaten “sunna-style” with the fingers. Using real cutlery and tableware reduces the trash that goes into our landfills.

Wherever you find yourself having iftar this Ramadan share with others, through words and actions, how Green Ramadans are better for our planet. Have a goal of making each iftar a zero-waste event.