Pool parties are fun but can harm the planet. From wasted water to piles of disposable plastic, the impact adds up fast. The good news? You can host a pool party that’s better for the environment without sacrificing the fun. Here’s how:
- Ditch disposables: Use reusable or compostable plates and cups.
- Hydrate smartly: Set up a water refill station with shatterproof dispensers.
- Eco-friendly decor: Skip balloons and glitter; go for potted plants or recycled materials.
- Eat local and plant-based: Support farmers’ markets and serve seasonal, veggie-packed dishes.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the pool and marine life by choosing mineral-based sunscreens.
- Water-saving games: Opt for low-splash activities or land-based options like cornhole.
- Reusable favors: Give guests practical items like bamboo utensils or potted herbs.
- Efficient lighting: Use solar or LED lights for ambiance and energy savings.
- Maintain pool chemicals: Keep levels balanced to avoid draining and wasting water.
- Sort waste: Provide bins for recycling, compost, and trash to minimize landfill impact.
Why it matters: Pool pumps alone produce emissions equal to 1.3 million cars annually. Simple swaps – like covering your pool to cut evaporation by 95% or using LED lights – can make a big difference. Plus, your choices can inspire others to think greener. Ready to plan your next party? Let’s dive in.
10 Eco-Friendly Pool Party Tips to Reduce Environmental Impact
1. Use Reusable Plates, Cups, and Utensils
Swapping disposable tableware for reusable options is a simple yet impactful way to cut down on waste at your pool party. Disposable plastic plates, cups, and utensils can take hundreds of years to break down, while reusable options help sidestep that issue entirely.
For poolside dining, stainless steel is a standout choice. It’s tough, shatter-resistant, and free of harmful chemicals – perfect for an outdoor setting. Plus, stainless steel can be recycled endlessly and requires less energy to repurpose than creating new items from scratch.
If using reusable tableware isn’t practical for a larger gathering, consider certified compostable options. Products made from materials like sugarcane, bamboo, or palm leaves break down quickly while helping to minimize plastic waste.
2. Set Up a Water Refill Station
A water refill station is a simple way to keep your guests hydrated while cutting down on single-use plastic waste. In the U.S. alone, over 60 million plastic bottles end up in landfills and oceans every single day. By offering a refill station, you’re making a direct impact on reducing this waste while keeping your event environmentally friendly.
For safety, choose shatterproof, glass-free dispensers, especially if you’re hosting near a pool. As Clear Comfort advises:
Avoid using glassware around the pool. Opt for reusable, shatterproof cups to prevent accidents.
To keep things safe, set up the station away from the pool’s edge to allow for easy and secure access.
Want to make your refill station stand out? Offer infused water options. Dr. Manasa Mantravadi, Founder of Ahimsa, suggests:
Instead [of single-use plastic], serve beverages in large dispensers. Fill them with homemade lemonade, iced tea, or infused water with slices of cucumber, lemon, and mint.
Adding fresh herbs and fruits not only enhances the flavor but also makes the station more inviting.
Encourage your guests to bring their own reusable water bottles by including a note in your digital invitations. To cover everyone, keep a backup supply of reusable stainless steel tumblers on hand. You can find numbered or color-coded sets for around $20–$23, ensuring everyone has a clean, reusable option.
Kyle Tafuri, Vice President of Sustainability at Hackensack Meridian Health, highlights the benefits of stainless steel:
Stainless steel is the gold standard water bottle material… It’s durable, non-reactive, and easy to clean.
This durable material keeps water cold for hours, making it perfect for those hot summer gatherings.
3. Pick Decorations Made from Recycled Materials
Decorations like balloons and glitter might seem festive, but they come with a hidden cost to the environment. Most balloons and plastic glitter can’t be recycled or broken down naturally, which means they can linger in landfills and waterways for centuries. On top of that, wildlife often mistakes these materials for food, leading to harmful consequences. Helium balloons, in particular, use up helium – a non-renewable resource that’s crucial for medical equipment like MRI machines.
To host a poolside party that’s both stylish and eco-conscious, opt for decorations made from natural and recycled materials. Think fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, or even coconut shells for tropical centerpieces. Calvert Crary, Executive Director at ILA Penthouse, shares:
Designing with natural materials, such as flowers, herbs, plants, and vegetables is always a fun way to create the mood.
Skip balloon arches and instead use washable paper or fabric decorations. For a creative photo booth backdrop, repurpose old gift bags or upcycled fabric scraps. Everyday items like glass jars, picture frames, and posterboard can also be transformed into themed decor. Want to add a playful twist? Try edible decorations like herb centerpieces or cookie letter banners that double as snacks for your guests. These small touches not only reduce waste but also give your party a unique, eco-friendly vibe.
Liz Brown, Chief Sustainability Officer at ILA Penthouse, emphasizes:
Minimize garbage by choosing non-disposable options.
Instead of using plastic confetti, go for biodegradable alternatives like hole-punched leaves or dried petals. These simple swaps help protect the planet while keeping your party festive and fun.
4. Serve Local and Plant-Based Food
Choosing local, plant-based dishes is a smart way to reduce your pool party’s carbon footprint. Shopping at nearby farmers’ markets instead of big supermarkets helps cut down on emissions tied to long-distance shipping. As Honestly Modern puts it:
By supporting local businesses, you contribute to a more diverse and robust economy, reduce shipping and transport-related emissions, and may even find more environmentally friendly products.
This not only helps the environment but also supports local farmers in your community.
Seasonal produce is a win-win: it tastes better, often costs less, and is packed with nutrients. For summer gatherings, consider refreshing, water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon, cucumber, and berries to keep everyone hydrated. Go for plant-based options such as veggie burgers, lentil salads, or quinoa bowls to further reduce the environmental impact.
Local ingredients also cut down on packaging waste. Farmers’ markets often sell loose, plastic-free produce, making it easier to avoid unnecessary plastic. Instead of buying pre-made, plastic-wrapped platters, spend a little time prepping fruits and vegetables yourself.
When it comes to salads, Napa cabbage is a great choice for dishes served at room temperature. Elise Bauer, Founder of Simply Recipes, explains:
Napa cabbage (a kind of Chinese cabbage), while not as sturdy as regular cabbage, is much more resilient than lettuce, so it lends itself well to picnic salads that have to sit around for a while.
Consider quick and easy recipes like a cucumber salad, white bean salad, or strawberry blueberry jicama salsa . To minimize food waste, freeze leftover fruit for smoothies or use carrot tops and herb stems in salads. Any extra food? Donate it to a local food bank or shelter to ensure it doesn’t go to waste .
5. Provide Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Many regular sunscreens rely on chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Unfortunately, these chemicals have been linked to coral reef damage and bleaching. In fact, Hawaii took a stand against this issue in 2018 by banning sunscreens containing these ingredients to help protect its marine ecosystems.
Reef-safe sunscreens offer a better alternative by using mineral filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier against UV rays. This switch not only helps protect marine life but also benefits pool water quality. Traditional sunscreens can mix with pool water, leading to the formation of chloramines (combined chlorine), which cause cloudy water, strong odors, and irritation to the eyes and skin.
When selecting reef-safe sunscreen, it’s important to check the active ingredients. Opt for products that list zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and steer clear of those containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, PABA, or parabens. Lotions are a better choice than sprays, and it’s a good idea to look for labels indicating "non-nano" or "micro-sized" particles.
To make it easy for everyone, set up a guest station stocked with reef-safe sunscreen and towels. Encourage guests to wear protective clothing and take a quick rinse before jumping in the pool to minimize residue.
6. Choose Water-Saving Games and Activities
Planning a pool party? You can keep the fun going while being mindful of water use. Excessive jumping and splashing might seem harmless, but it can lead to significant water loss. When water levels drop, you’ll need to refill the pool more often and rebalance the chemicals, which isn’t exactly eco-friendly.
Instead, mix in some land-based games that keep everyone entertained without wasting water. Set up classics like cornhole, ladder toss, frisbee, or ring toss in a shaded area near the pool. For something a little different, try oversized versions of Jenga or Connect Four. These games encourage guests to move between the pool and the lawn, cutting down on splash-outs while keeping the energy high.
Want to add something extra? Dry inflatables like obstacle courses with tunnels, climbing walls, and slides are a fantastic option. They’re fun, engaging, and don’t require any water. In fact, dry inflatables can increase guest participation by up to 40%. Companies like Bouncy Rentals USA offer a variety of inflatable obstacle courses and combo units that double as exciting party centerpieces while helping you conserve water.
For pool-based activities, stick to low-splash games like inflatable volleyball, floating basketball hoops, or ring toss. And here’s a simple tip: set up snack and drink stations a little farther from the pool. This small adjustment can help reduce water loss while keeping the party vibe intact.
7. Give Out Reusable Party Favors
Ditch the typical plastic knickknacks and go for reusable, practical favors instead. As the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wisely notes:
The most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it in the first place
.
For a poolside gathering, consider favors that are both functional and eco-friendly. Reusable cups, bamboo utensils, or cloth tote bags are great options that guests can use long after the party ends. Research suggests that people are more likely to adopt sustainable habits when they see others embracing them, rather than through financial incentives. Your thoughtful choices could inspire a chain reaction of positive change.
Here’s a creative idea: use your table centerpieces as parting gifts. Potted herbs like basil or mint not only add a touch of greenery to your décor but also serve as lasting keepsakes for guests. If you’re feeling crafty, seed paper favors (around $1.75 each) or wildflower seed bombs (about $23.20 for a set of 25) are another excellent choice. These items not only make unique gifts but also support local pollinators.
Want to take it a step further? Consider asking your guests what they’d prefer. Use digital invitations to poll them about their favor preferences. Studies show that many people would rather have a donation made in their name to a nonprofit than receive a physical gift. If you go this route, pick a charity that aligns with your party’s eco-conscious theme. As Liz Brown, Chief Sustainability Officer at ILA Penthouse, says:
Better for the planet means better for us; every dollar spent is a vote for future behavior
.
Lastly, avoid plastic packaging altogether. Use cloth bags or skip wrapping entirely. With around 50 billion plastic water bottles sold annually, even small changes at your pool party can contribute to a bigger environmental impact.
8. Use Solar or LED Lighting
Lighting plays a big role in setting the mood for an evening pool party while also helping to keep energy costs in check. Solar-powered lights and LED bulbs are great options for creating a vibrant atmosphere without wasting energy. As Maytronics points out:
Upgrade to LED Lights: If you have underwater lighting in your pool, consider upgrading to LED lights. They consume less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs.
There are options for every budget: floating solar lights start at $9.99, underwater LED party lights at $11.99, solar-powered wall-mounted lights at $99.99, and high-end inground LED systems range from $450 to over $900, depending on the features. While the initial cost might seem high, the savings can be substantial – upgrading to energy-efficient pool equipment can cut energy use by up to 70%. Plus, you can customize your lighting to fit both your party’s vibe and your wallet.
Floating solar orbs are an easy, hassle-free choice. For example, the TIALLY Solar Floating Glow Balls are a popular pick. Just drop them into the water before sunset, and they’ll automatically light up as the evening sets in.
To make your setup even more efficient, consider adding a programmable timer to ensure the lights only run during party hours. Another smart move? Use a solar pool cover during the day to naturally warm the water, cutting down on the need for energy-hungry heaters when night falls. It’s worth noting that traditional pool pumps in the U.S. contribute to 10 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, so these small changes can make a big difference in reducing your party’s environmental footprint.
9. Maintain Proper Pool Chemical Levels
Keeping your pool’s chemical levels in check isn’t just about crystal-clear water – it plays a role in protecting the environment too. When pool chemicals are out of balance, you might end up needing to drain water treated with harsh substances, which can harm aquatic ecosystems if it seeps into nearby waterways. With proper maintenance, a pool can go 5 to 7 years without needing to be drained, saving water and reducing chemical runoff.
To keep your pool party eco-friendly, aim for these chemical levels: pH between 7.2–7.6 ppm, alkalinity at 80–120 ppm, and calcium hardness at 180–220 ppm. Use a 3-in-1 test kit before and after the party to quickly spot and address any imbalances. As The Pool Factory points out:
By checking the chemical levels in your pool more often, you are less likely to run into big problems, eliminating the need to shock the pool with strong doses of chlorine.
For a greener alternative, consider switching to a saltwater system or exploring options like UV sanitizers, ozone generators, or even sphagnum moss to cut down on chemicals. Saltwater systems naturally generate chlorine through electrolysis, while UV and ozone systems tackle bacteria with fewer chemicals.
Another tip? Use a pool cover when the pool isn’t in use. This simple step can cut chemical usage by 35% to 60%, as it reduces evaporation and keeps debris out of the water.
10. Sort Waste After the Party
Make cleanup easier and more eco-friendly by setting up three clearly labeled bins in the pool area: recycling, compost, and trash. This simple step helps reduce the amount of waste heading to landfills, where materials like plastic can take centuries – up to 700 years – to break down.
Here’s a quick guide for sorting:
- Recycling bin: Toss in aluminum cans, glass bottles, and clean plastics.
- Compost bin: Add food scraps, paper napkins, and organic decorations like flowers or herbs.
- Trash bin: Use for anything that doesn’t fit into the other two categories.
Calvert Crary, Executive Director at ILA Penthouse, emphasizes the importance of this approach:
Setting up multiple receptacles to sort recycling, garbage, and compost allows you to minimize the amount of trash that ends up in a landfill.
Place the bins in areas where guests naturally gather, making it easy for everyone to pitch in. Add clear signs or posters to guide guests on what goes where. Before wrapping up, do a quick check to ensure waste is properly sorted according to your local rules.
Don’t forget about leftover food! Provide biodegradable take-out boxes so guests can take some home, or arrange to donate extras to a nearby food bank. When recycling items like wine bottles, give them a quick rinse to remove any food residue before disposal. Small efforts like these can make a big difference in keeping your event sustainable.
Conclusion
Throwing an eco-friendly pool party is a reminder that even small changes can make a big difference. With pool pumps contributing significantly to emissions, every step toward reducing your party’s carbon footprint counts.
The ten tips shared here are both practical and impactful. Simple swaps – like using reusable plates, setting up a water refill station, or opting for solar lighting – don’t demand a complete lifestyle shift. But together, these efforts help cut down on waste that would otherwise linger in landfills for generations and lower energy use that fuels climate change.
Beyond just reducing environmental impact, your sustainable choices can inspire your guests. As Dr. Manasa Mantravadi points out, every eco-conscious decision you make serves as an example, encouraging others to think about incorporating greener habits into their own lives. When your guests see how easy and enjoyable sustainable hosting can be, they’re more likely to follow suit.
FAQs
What are some eco-friendly decoration ideas for a pool party?
Make your pool party decorations more eco-friendly by choosing reusable or biodegradable options. Swap out single-use items for fabric bunting, recycled-paper banners, or even potted plants like herbs or flowers. These plants not only enhance the décor but can also double as thoughtful party favors for your guests. For lighting, consider solar-powered LED string lights or floating pool lights. They’re energy-efficient and add a festive vibe to your gathering.
Instead of disposable plastic inflatables, think about renting sturdy, reusable inflatable decorations from Bouncy Rentals. Their selection includes bounce houses, water slides, and other fun options that can serve as both decorative elements and entertainment for your guests. To keep your event waste-free, use tableware made from bamboo or palm leaf, which are both reusable and compostable. These small changes can make a big difference while keeping your party stylish and sustainable.
What are some fun water-saving games for a pool party?
Looking for ways to keep the fun alive while being mindful of water use? Try these eco-friendly pool party games that are sure to entertain:
- Sponge Bucket Relay: Split into teams and race to move water from one bucket to another using sponges. It’s a playful way to reuse water without wasting it.
- Spray-Bottle Freeze Tag: The "it" player tags others by giving a quick mist with a spray bottle instead of using a hose. It’s thrilling and only uses a small amount of water.
- Sponge Toss: Players toss a wet sponge back and forth, trying not to let it fall. The sponge stays wet, so the same water is reused throughout the game.
These games are simple, fun, and perfect for guests of all ages – all while keeping water use to a minimum!
Why should I use reef-safe sunscreen at my pool party?
Using reef-safe sunscreen at your pool party is an easy way to contribute to the health of marine ecosystems. Traditional sunscreens often include chemicals that can damage coral reefs and aquatic life when pool water makes its way into natural waterways. Opting for reef-safe sunscreen helps reduce this impact, promoting cleaner oceans and supporting efforts to protect marine life.
