Plastic is a convenient material for many event supplies. It’s lightweight, durable, and widely recyclable. What’s not to love?
However, with some recent changes to the global recycling market, plastic isn’t as easy to recycle as it used to be.
Until recently, China was the largest importer of U.S. plastic waste. But with a new policy enacted at the beginning of 2018, China has banned the import of post-consumer plastic waste from foreign countries.
“Post-consumer” means plastics that we’ve purchased and used as individuals. That includes plastic bottles, cups, plates, and any other plastics you use at home or at events.
Other countries are still accepting plastic imports, but there’s much lower demand with China out of the market. That means plastic waste is piling up in warehouses with no one to buy it, or even sometimes getting sent to landfill if haulers can’t afford to store it.
Some hopeful recycling advocates (like me!) think China’s ban actually has the potential to spur recycling development and innovation here in the U.S. But those solutions won’t happen overnight.
In this uncertain period of low plastic demand, here are three alternatives to plastic event supplies for your next event:
1. Reusable Dishware
Ironically, “china” can be the solution to China’s plastic import ban! Reusable porcelain or ceramic dishes give an event a feeling of class and refinement. If your budget allows for reusable dishes, they are the most sustainable way to go.
2. Palm Leaves
If you don’t have the budget (or dishwasher access) for reusable dishware, palm leaf dishes are a stunning disposable alternative. Made from palm leaves that have naturally fallen to the ground, these dishes are beautiful, compostable, and were created with minimal environmental impact. A few brands that make this style of dishware are Verterra, Patra and Leafware.
3. Sugarcane
After sugarcane is processed, it leaves behind a fibrous waste material called bagasse. Bagasse is used to create a variety of products, including compostable serviceware. Sugarcane bagasse dishes have the feeling of a thick paper plate, and they are typically white or off-white in color.
Two brands that produce sugarcane bagasse dishes are Vegware and Eco Products. Other plant fibers like wheat and grass are often used to make compostable serviceware as well.
By using alternatives to plastic event supplies, you can reduce landfill waste and ensure your serviceware can be successfully reused or composted.
It’s possible without plastics. Work with me on your next event and I’ll help you use the best supplies for successful recycling and composting.
Image credit for palm leaf plates photo: Wooden Earth Ltd