With the 4th of July right around the corner, here is a little green to mix with your red, white, and blue: Ditch the disposable party ware. Though disposable plates, cups, and utensils are popular and convenient, they’re not so convenient for the environment. Do your best to use regular tableware that can be washed (full loads only!) and reused. If you must go the disposable route, clean them up (they’re often washable) and use them at your next big gathering. Avoid individual plastic drink bottles. Instead, fill pitchers with water, homemade lemonade, and iced tea. Even if you follow that tip, you're likely to have some individual-sized beverages in a cooler. Opt for aluminum, not plastic, and be sure to encourage recycling by putting out easily identifiable bins.