Recycle....easy. Have two distinct cans for trash and recycling, three for compost if you really want to reduce your waste. Have bright labels on them for guests to easily distinguish, and maybe have some big pictures or lists of what can go in them (especially for compost and recycling). Color coding things can work great too, have different color cans to make it even easier for guests, that way there is not mistake!
Reuse...for you plates and cutlery try reusable items, that guests won't have to throw away (this is easier for smaller gatherings). For larger gatherings, purchase items that will have the least amount of impact (like recyclable items) or if possible, look for biodegradable items that will just break down after being used. Also reuse your decorations year to year, you'll save a ton of money since you only use it once a year anyway and you won't have to go back to the store to shop for more!
For a fun party favor, give guests their own cup/mug/beverage container! Decorate it yourself or have them do it and put their names on them (another less thing to worry about people mixing up drinks). You won't have to buy all the plastic cups and guests can come home with their own designed cup!
Healthy/local food: skip the Walmart run for your next bash, it may be quick and easy but will it really be what guests want to eat at a party or the best use of money? If your are still doing meat items, go to a local butcher you trust. For the rest of the dishes purchase as many fruits, veggies and bakery from local shops and markets as you can (or even your garden) and make it yourself. If you don't have time to make a lot of dishes, go to your local deli (by local I don't mean you nearest Walmart), but a whole foods kind of market or grocery store. You will enjoy the fresh dishes so much and your guests will love coming to your parties!
Don't litter! It's really easy, but often at parties people leave things laying around and forget about them...make sure if your guests don't pick up after themselves, you do!
