10 Ways to Celebrate Autumn Sustainably

Bonfires? Check. Maple syrup? Check. Saving the planet? Double-check! Fall is just around the corner, and you can enjoy every bit of it while being eco-friendly. We’ve compiled some ideas to get you started, from gardening advice to crafting projects, to weekend adventures and beyond. We’ve even included a bit of wardrobe inspiration. So go ahead, grab something warm to sip and make your bucket list.

1. Enjoy seasonal drinks with a reusable mug.

Are you a fan of pumpkin spice lattes? Or maybe you don’t have a sweet tooth, but look forward to relishing a good dark roast or flat white. Either way, plan ahead and save waste from going to the landfill by purchasing a reusable mug. We like to keep a spare one in the car for those spontaneous trips that inevitably happen.

2. Create a fall pollinator oasis.

Getting your hands in the dirt at this time of the year can be such a pleasurable experience. You’re free from the heat and humidity of the summer, and you don’t have to worry about throngs of mosquitoes bothering you. You can actually enjoy the beautiful space you’ve cultivated! Make it friendly for pollinators like bees and butterflies by adding plants that bloom through the end of the season like asters, goldenrod, and black-eyed Susans, and if you have a yard with trees, don’t forget to ‘leave your leaves’—up to 94% of caterpillars overwinter in them. You can gently rake them into corners as soon as they fall if you don’t want your entire lawn blanketed, but we implore you to leave this vital habitat intact.

3. Take in fall’s colors on a nature walk.

We’ve mentioned how much we enjoy the cooler weather, but of course, September and October also bring beautiful foliage! Set aside some time to get outside and enjoy it, whether you stroll through an urban greenspace or head to one of Georgia’s state parks for a hike. The exercise will do wonders for your mental and physical health, and it’s a great way to spend time with family, pets, or even that old friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Wherever you go, remember to leave the area cleaner than you found it.

4. Forage your decorations.

Why spend money on storebought items when you can have fun creating your own eco-friendly versions? Place pinecones in a shallow bowl on your coffee table, or fill a tall vase with cattails or majestic branches. We’re also big fans of embellishing with pumpkins. Just be sure to create an action plan for properly disposing of them once they’ve served their purpose. You can eat them, compost them, or cut them up for wildlife.

5. Visit an orchard.

If you have a free weekend, consider heading to the North Georgia mountains for an apple picking extravaganza. It’s one of our favorite ways to celebrate the season, and supports local farmers. Plus, it’s one of those activities that just keeps on giving. You can use what you’ve picked to bake something sweet, like pies or fritters. You can take the savory approach and go for apple cheddar handpies. You could even make your own cider or try your hand at apple butter. The list goes on and on…and we’re here for it.

6. Cook a farm-to-table meal.

Speaking of buying local, most farmer’s markets remain open through November, and stopping by is not only a fun way to spend a Saturday, but can do wonders for your pantry. Stock up on seasonal produce like squash, apples, parsnips, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes, figs, and more. Then get together with friends and cook a delicious meal together.

7. Make your own Halloween costume.

If you celebrate the holiday and want to avoid the pitfalls of fast fashion, now is the time to start planning. Make a list of ideas you’re interested in, and then start looking to see what you can find. Check your own closet to see what you have already, or spend a weekend or two scouring your local thrift stores. You could even sew something yourself if you know how! Have fun with it, and get ready to wow everyone in October with something creative, unique, and waste-free.

8. Thrift a new wardrobe.

We may have to wait a little longer for it in the South, but there’s nothing like that feeling of being able to transition to sweaters, scarves, and boots after you’ve wrapped up your days at the pool. You probably have a few favorites in your closet already, but if you’re looking to add to your collection, head online or to one of your local shops to purchase something used. Consignment stores are also a great option if you want to trade in some of your own items.

9. Host a clothing exchange.

Another fun way to spice up your wardrobe is by swapping items with friends or family. Find a time everyone can meet, purchase hot cocoa or a few bottles of wine, put out some snacks, and you’ve got yourself a party! Take it to the next level by curating a fall playlist to listen to in the background, or cap it all off with a movie that reminds you of the season. If you have items left over afterward, you can donate them.

10. Crochet (or knit) something cozy.

You might already be a pro, or you may want to try your hand at a new hobby. Whichever category you fall into, creating something from scratch is a great way to help the planet while finding some creative inspiration. You could make something small like a scarf or hat, or go big with a blanket. When you finish, you can wrap yourself up in it and go stargazing…or rewatch Hocus Pocus.