Escape the frenzy of the city for a relaxing picnic on a grassy knoll, sandy beach or urban parkscape. Gather your friends, some fine food and toss a blanket on the lawn or picnic table. No need to throw away plastic utensils and plates, there are lots of earth friendly and fair trade options for dining alfresco in style. With many options for fair trade picnic totes choose one that suits your family’s style. We love the large Simple Peace “Tigmi” basket totes. They’re hand-woven by a fair trade artisan cooperative in Morocco. Store your food in recycled plastic food storage containers that can be recycled again after several uses as #5 plastic. Reusable picnic plates are best for preventing landfill. Serve your famous secret family recipe potato salad on colorful Zak recycled confetti melamine plates along with natural bamboo utensils. Bamboo utensils are reusable, durable and made from a renewable resource.

• Zak Recycled Confetti Melamine Divided Plates, $7.95 at Bibelotshops.com
• Simple Peace Tigmi Fair Trade handwoven basket tote bags, $60.00 at WorldofGood.com
• Natural Bamboo Utensil Set, Natural Bamboo Utensil Set, $2.99 at GetnGreen.com
• Recycled Plastic Food Storage Containers – Set of 2, $9.95 at TheRainforestsite.com