As our society becomes increasingly aware of the impact of our actions on the environment, more people are looking for ways to make a positive difference, especially businesses. One simple way to do so is by making conscious choices when it comes to disposable food trays and eco-friendly disposable cutlery. Plastic is one of the main contributors when it comes to global warming, both when it’s being produced and when it’s disposed of, so cutting down on harmful materials that contain or are made from plastic is essential. Here are some ways you can make a positive impact with your disposable food tray choices, as a customer and a business. 

Choose Biodegradable or Compostable Materials

Traditional disposable food trays are typically made of plastic or styrofoam, which can take hundreds of years to break down in a landfill. These materials not only take up valuable space, but they also release harmful chemicals into the environment as they degrade.

Instead of choosing this material, opt for biodegradable or compostable materials. These are made from natural materials such as bamboo, sugarcane, or paper, which can break down in a matter of months. Some biodegradable materials may require industrial composting to break down properly, so make sure to check the label to see if they are suitable for your local composting facility.

Choose Recyclable Materials

If biodegradable or compostable materials are not available or suitable, choose disposable food trays made from recyclable materials. These may include plastic trays labelled with a recycling symbol or paper trays made from recycled materials.

When disposing of these trays, make sure to clean them of any leftover food debris and recycle them in the appropriate recycling bin. Remember that not all materials can be recycled in every area, so check your local recycling guidelines before recycling.

Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics are a major contributor to plastic pollution in our oceans and landfills. These include plastic bags, straws, and cutlery, as well as plastic food trays. When possible, avoid single-use plastics altogether. Bring your own reusable containers or utensils when dining out or getting takeout. If you must use disposable food trays, choose options made from biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials.

Choose Local Suppliers

Choosing local suppliers for your disposable food trays can have a positive impact on the environment and your community. Local suppliers often have shorter transportation distances, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping products. In addition, supporting local businesses helps to strengthen the local economy and creates jobs within the community. Look for suppliers that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices in their operations.

Consider the Packaging

When choosing disposable food trays, consider the packaging they come in. Some trays may come individually wrapped in plastic or wrapped in excessive layers of paper. Opt for trays that come in minimal packaging or choose suppliers that use eco-friendly packaging materials. Some suppliers may also offer bulk ordering options to reduce the amount of packaging needed for shipping.

Making a positive impact with your disposable food tray choice is a simple way to contribute to a more sustainable future. By choosing biodegradable or compostable materials, recyclable materials, avoiding single-use plastics, choosing local suppliers, and considering the packaging, you can help reduce waste and lessen your impact on the environment.