As summer winds down and we begin to feel the first hints of fall in the air, there’s a natural urge to make the most of what’s left. But in doing so, it’s important to stay mindful of how our activities impact the environment. The good news is that you can savor every last drop of summer and do it sustainably. Here’s how:

1. Choose Local Adventures Over Long Flights

Instead of hopping on a plane for one last getaway, consider a local or regional trip. Explore nearby towns, nature trails, lakes, or beaches. Not only will you cut down on carbon emissions from air travel, but you’ll also support local businesses that rely on summer traffic. Try looking for eco friendly lodges or campgrounds that prioritize sustainability through solar power, composting, and water conservation.

2. Eat Seasonally and Locally

Summer is the peak season for fresh fruits and vegetables. Hit your local farmers market and cook up meals that celebrate what’s in season. You’ll reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and packaging, and you’ll likely enjoy tastier, fresher meals. You can even freeze or preserve summer produce to enjoy later in the year.

3. Ditch the Disposable

Barbecues, beach days, and outdoor parties often come with a mountain of single sue plastics. Make it a goal to minimize waste by using reusable plates, cups, and utensils. Bring your own water bottle and coffee tumbler wherever you go, and swap plastic wrap and bags for beeswax wraps and reusable containers.

4. Support Slow Fashion for Late Summer Looks

Tempted by end of summer sales? Instead of buying fast fashion, consider shopping secondhand, swapping with friends, or simply restyling what you already own. The fashion industry is a major contributor to global emissions. Extending the life of your clothes is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do.

5. Get Outside Without Harming the Outdoors

Nature is one of the best parts of summer, so get out there and enjoy it. But do so respectfully

Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging native plants.
Pack out all trash, including compostable items.
Use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming in natural bodies of water.
Choose eco friendly bug sprays and lotions

These small habits help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the places we love.

6. Host a Low Impact Gathering

Summer’s end is perfect for a backyard celebration, and it doesn’t have to generate tons of waste. Try these ideas:

Send digital invites instead of printed ones.
Serve plant based or locally sourced dishes.
Use string lights and candles instead of energy hungry outdoor lighting.
Set up a recycling and compost station.

You’ll create beautiful memories and a smaller footprint.

The last days of summer are a time to soak up sunshine, spend time with loved ones, and slow down before the busyness of fall kicks in. With a little thought and intention, you can make the most out of it and honor the planet while doing so. Sustainability isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about making conscious choices that align with the world we want to live in. so go ahead and squeeze every last drop out of summer, just leave the smallest footprint behind.

Savor the Season: Sustainable Ways to Make the Most of Summer's End