Have you bought disposable tableware for an event? Here's everything you need to know about safely disposing of compostable tableware plates, including why it's so important! Did you know that over 40 billion plastic spoons, forks, and knives are discarded each year in the United States? Many of these items end up in oceans and landfills, damaging the environment and wildlife. This explains why more individuals are looking for cost-effective, environmentally responsible options. Enter: compostable party tableware! Companies like EcoSoul are inventing creative ways to keep plastic cutlery and plates out of the environment. But how do you dispose of compostable disposable tableware once they've been used? It is critical to know how to properly dispose of compostable dinnerware and tableware. In this blog, we'll go over various approaches as well as some of the most typical issues associated with their disposal. Why Responsible Disposal of Compostable Tableware is Important? Because disposable tableware, made from plants, disintegrates more quickly, many people worry if there is a 'right' method to dispose of them. They degrade regardless, so why is it important how you dispose of them? Despite its natural and biodegradable nature, incorrect disposal, such as in landfills, hinders the composting process. It eliminates the environmental benefits of using compostable products and instead leads to pollution. In the long run, the appropriate disposal of compostable tableware plates helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Below are some of the reasons to responsibly dispose of compostable tableware: Proper disposal promotes sustainability and contributes to the circular economy. Using proper disposal methods reduces contamination of recycling streams and compost piles. Proper disposal practices limit the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills. Proper disposal of bamboo plates and cutlery urges us to consider how we use things and their environmental impact. That said, let's look at some of the most common ways to dispose of compostable party tableware. Composting The most widely suggested method for composting, particularly if the items are labeled compostable. Composting is the process of breaking down organic materials in a controlled atmosphere to produce nutrient-rich soil. You can put them in your home compost pile or take them to a commercial composting site. Once added to the pile, they decompose naturally and feed the soil with nutrients. To speed up the process, split the plates into smaller pieces. Recycling In some circumstances, disposable tableware can be recycled, but this is dependent on nearby recycling programs. Some programs may not have facilities for recycling disposable bamboo dishes. Even if they do, your compostable tableware plates may be coated with or contain non-recyclable materials. However, because our plates are made from natural materials, they can be recycled. We recommend that you examine the packaging to determine if it is recyclable before purchasing disposable tableware products. If they are labeled ' recyclable,' ensure to remove any food residue before placing them in the appropriate bin. Upcycling Before you put away your disposable tableware plates, consider upcycling them. This means that they can be used for purposes other than eating. Some suggestions include repurposing discarded compostable tableware plates to create receptacles for organizing objects, seed beginnings, and even plant labels. They can also be used for craft projects, such as plant coasters.