Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping down the bunny trail...
And what does that cute fluffy bunny find? Plastic eggs, fake grass and unnaturally bright-colored candy.
Spring brings a celebration of rebirth and renewal, and it's the perfect time to get cracking on heading down a healthier, more sustainable Easter trail. Here's why:
The tradition of giving eggs represents new life and can be traced back to ancient cultures. But the wasteful footprint of dyed and plastic eggs, and fake grass, stomps all over our carbon-challenged planet.
Here are three alternatives for your Easter basket that will keep your children happily and healthfully, hopping down the bunny trail:
1. Source eggs locally.
If you celebrate with real eggs, support your local farmer and buy eggs from pasture-raised chickens. These eggs are healthier -- they contain more vitamin A, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, according to a report conducted by the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Read more about air pollution and animals.
2. Avoid plastic Easter grass and plastic eggs.
Cellophane Easter grass used in Easter baskets can not be recycled. If you have Easter grass, reuse it. If not, use shredded newspaper or tissue paper. Colorful plastic Easter eggs are made from nasty petroleum byproducts. Don't make your own Easter eggs? No worry. Try plastic-free, compostable, corn-based plastic eggs.
Read more about air pollution and plastic.
3. Use natural dyes.
Many commercial dyes contain toxic chemicals and additives that can harm children and pets. Dye your Easter eggs naturally. Here's a fun tutorial for creating "super" natural eggs.
Read more about air pollution and toxics.
Moms Clean Air Force wishes everyone a happy and healthy Spring!
Cartoon: Liza Donnelly
Tell Congress to keep toxic chemicals away from our kids!