If you're planning a gathering this Sunday for the Big Game, remember it's easy to make your event green. You can score for the home team by taking some simple steps to reduce what's left along the sidelines after your party.

SWACO suggests you pass on paper invitations and run with email or word of mouth to alert the crowd. If you decide to use paper invitations, remember those invites as well as the envelopes are recyclable (but field a strong defense by shredding anything with a name and address on it before recycling).

Other members of the team roster should include well marked recycling containers as well as trash containers at your party. Let your guests know that it is important to team management that they recycle all their bottles and cans. Don't forget the cardboard cartons from all your favorite beverages as well! They are usually made of recyclable material.

You can also reduce piling on by cutting the number of cans and bottles. Buy your refreshments in larger bottles or containers and then serve drinks in reusable glass or plastic containers. If your team meal features pizza, remember to trash the scraps and the liner and then recycle the pizza boxes.

When you lay out your game plan, make sure your lineup features re-usable tableware, dishes, cups, and glasses. You can send them to the showers (dishwasher) after the game and these veterans will be ready to play again at your next event. Another way to lead green is to ask your guests to bring their favorite dip and veggies in reusable containers. Afterward, they'll take home those dishes and you'll be able to punt with less clean up.

Score big for this weekend's Big Game by starting with a green game plan. Lead the team to www.swaco.org for more tips on reducing your impact on our environment.