Everyone’s doing it. It’s so trendy now; even celebrities are doing it. If you’re not doing it, you’re so not one of the cool kids. I’m talking about going green, of course.

We hear about it on the news, read about it on the Internet. Even random celebrities on The CW urge us to “go green.” And for the most part we do. Recycling bins are filled with empty Keystone Light cans, water bottles and the occasional handle of [enter the name of any cheap liquor here], so the general Binghamton University public is doing their part. But there is one thing that we as hard studying — and even harder partying — Binghamton students can do to take a stand. That is to start throwing some green parties.

What exactly is a green party? A green party is any party that creates energy and decreases waste. (Please don’t quote me on this, I just made that up). And how can that be done, you might ask. Follow these simple steps and hopefully you will reduce carbon emissions, decrease your own heating and electric bills and get you and your friends significantly schwasted.

1. Have your guests bring their own thermoses.

Have you ever thought about how many red cups are used, reused, then probably littered at every party? Considering most, if not all, of those cups are being tossed after the party is over, wouldn’t it be more efficient to have reusable drinking carafes instead? Plus, you’d be able to go outside with your drink without having to worry about that pesky open container law.

2. Have an acoustic band instead of a DJ.

An acoustic band won’t use any extra electricity. It’ll be unique and nicer than a DJ or a sound system. Also, there’s no need for booty-shaking dance music at a house party. This is why we have The Rathskeller and Sports Bar.

3. Pump the keg to power the heat in the house.

As long as the keg is being pumped, the heat will be on. And when the keg isn’t being pumped, people will be drinking and therefore won’t care that it’s frigid. Or you can steal blankets from airlines and give them to your party goers.

4. Make people only take the bus down to your party.

Anyone taking a cab won’t be allowed entrance. It’s kind of like using the car pool lane to get to work — only it’s more like taking the blue bus to get drunk. That’s BU’s version of going to work.

5. Forget Jell-O shots, make Jell-O stars.

You know those pretty, cute little Jell-O shapes that are on the back of the Jell-O box that moms make for their kids? Why don’t you make those for your guests? That way you don’t use any extra plastic cups that just go to waste. Plus, your shots will be so pretty!

6. Take a portion of your proceeds and donate it to a charity that helps the environment.

Since you’re saving money on cups and plastic shots, you can probably afford to donate some money to charity. Plus it’s a tax write off, and it’s good for your karma! Honestly, it’s a win-win.

7. Invite Al Gore and Ralph Nader.

Get it? Get it??