Guests enjoy sitting down at a beautifully set table. But often, our need for speed and ease gets in the way of preparing a table that is Earth-friendly.
For instance, for picnics, we tend to choose paper plates, despite their impact on the Earth. According to ImpactEarth.com, if each U.S. household replaced one 40-count package of
conventional paper plates each year with 100% recycled ones, 487,000
trees would be saved.
And even though plates and utensils made from recycled products like soda bottles, are better than paper, making these items is costly to the Earth as well.
So where does that leave us when it comes to plates, cups, glasses and utensils?
Here are the top three answers:
1. Borrow, rent, or acquire for free
Avoid purchasing new when you already have the items or can beg them from friends.
Look into renting. Your local tableware rental company may have some surprises in store for you. Let's just say this isn't your mother's rental place.
If you're concerned about the amount of time and/or water used to clean the items, remember that using a dish washer takes less water than cleaning each one under running water. Or fill a sink with very hot water, some soap and drop the items in immediately after eating. They can soak clean and require only a bit of water to rinse.
2. Buy used, then donate to a thrift store when the party's over
Unlike pre-worn clothing, used tableware presents a less problematic issue for most of us. You can find beautiful plates, glasses, utensils and linens that would be real budget busters if purchased new. Forget about perfectly matched sets and focus on a color or theme. You should have no trouble picking up fantastic bargains that lend themselves to a beautiful and unique table.
Lynn once threw a fondue gala for fifty. She needed six fondue pots and purchased them along with 50 fondue forks for less than $20 at a thrift store. After the party, she asked the guests if they wanted to take home the pots and forks. Four said yes. She donated the remaining two back to the store where she'd purchased them.
3. If you're going to purchase...
Look for items made by fair trade artisans like these recycled newspaper placemats
You can find biodegradable and compostable plates, bowls, cups and flatware made of 100% sugarcane fiber, vegetable starch, corn, bamboo and other materials.
Wood from non-threatened species or salvaged wood is functional and long lasting, especially for serving pieces.
Seek out cups and glasses made from recycled glass
Looking for ideas for how to set your table in an eco-friendly way? Buy our book today!
Guests enjoy sitting down at a beautifully set table. But often, our need for speed and ease gets in the way of preparing a table that is Earth-friendly.