Keep the Sparkle, Skip the Waste: 10 Ways to Celebrate July 4th Sustainably
As you make plans for the Fourth of July—whether it’s a picnic in the park, a neighborhood cookout, or simply enjoying the outdoors—it’s a perfect time to give back to the places we love. Small actions like picking up litter, using reusable supplies, and recycling properly can make a big difference.
This summer, your efforts can be part of the Great American Cleanup, a nationwide initiative to create cleaner, safer, and more beautiful communities—just in time for America’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. It’s a simple way to make your holiday even more meaningful.
Looking for ways to get started?
Check out these 10 easy tips to clean up this Fourth of July and be part of something bigger.
1. Eco-Friendly Transportation: Consider carpooling, biking, or using public transportation to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion.
2. Reuse Decorations: Use decorations you already own instead of buying new items. If you do purchase new items, store them for continued use next year.
3. Minimize Food Waste: Plan your meals carefully to avoid excessive leftovers. Compost food scraps or donate excess food to local food banks.
4. Avoid Disposable Products: Cut back on waste where you can by using reusable dishware, silverware, and tablecloths.
5. Recycle Right: Remember to recycle common party waste like aluminum, glass, and plastic bottles. Plastic grocery bags, hotdog and hamburger bun bags, and bags that carry ice are all recyclable at retailer drop-off locations across the country.
6. Choose Natural Bug Repellents: Opt for natural bug repellents to protect yourself from insects without harming the environment.
7. Respect Wildlife: When enjoying nature, keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitats. Do not feed or approach wild animals.
8. Leave Nothing Behind: The Fourth of July is synonymous with trips to the beach and parks with family and friends – often resulting in littered public spaces. Do your part by cleaning up your picnic or beach spot before you leave and picking up any litter you see along the way.
9. Fireworks Disposal: Fireworks are NOT recyclable. Check with your local government or Fire Department for takeback events. Or, click here to learn how to safely dispose of fireworks.
10. Join A Cleanup: Be part of a nationwide movement to create cleaner, greener communities. Whether you join a local event or organize your own with friends, your commitment helps make a lasting impact. Click below to find a Keep America Beautiful affiliate near you—or take the Greatest pledge and start your own cleanup today.
While celebrating your clean, green, and beautiful Fourth of July weekend, share your posts, pictures, and videos with Keep America Beautiful on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #DoBeautifulThings. Be inspired by the photos and stories of community improvement projects taking place across the country … led by people just like you!
About Keep America Beautiful®:
Keep America Beautiful®, the nation’s leading community improvement nonprofit organization, inspires and educates people to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environment. Established in 1953, Keep America Beautiful® strives to End Littering, Improve Recycling, and Beautify America’s Communities. We believe everyone has a right to live in a clean, green, and beautiful community, and shares a responsibility to contribute to that vision. The organization is driven by the work and passion of 700 Keep America Beautiful® affiliates, millions of volunteers, and the collaborative support of corporate partners, social and civic service organizations, academia, municipalities, elected officials, and individuals. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin, and YouTube. Donate and take action at kab.org.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
McCall Vrydaghs
Keep America Beautiful®