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Use biodegradable or recycled tableware

Why This is Green

Every once in a while, reusable plates are truly not an option. Unless you have a lot of like-minded guests who would be happy to BYO table settings (a rare but fantastic group of people!), the next best option is to look for party goods made of recycled plastics or bio-based materials. Choosing either minimizes waste as well as the consumption of fossil fuels, a non-renewable resource.

Keep in mind that while these versions of plates, cups, and more are good, they’re unfortunately not perfect (what is?). Corn- and sugar-derived plastics, for example, are made primarily from genetically modified plants, which require fertilizer. The process to turn them into plastic is both chemical and resource intensive. And while it sounds like corn plastic would be easy to compost, it actually only biodegrades under specific conditions. And most places don’t recycle it (yet).

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How To

Most big box stores now carry some version of recycled plastic party goods, as do natural food stores. Some may also stock bio-based plates and utensils. If you can’t find any stores selling these near you, they’re very easy to find online.