The Swiss canton of Ticino recently published an analysis on the environmental impacts of tableware used during events such as fairs or festivals, comparing the main options available, such as disposable plastic and bioplastic tableware, reusable plastic (polypropylene and melamine) and other materials (ceramic, glass and metal). Some interesting conclusions emerged from the research, which analyzed the entire life cycle of the dishes (tested during a 5-day event with about 50,000 meals and 100,000 drinks served). Between these:
- the transition from disposable tableware to reusable tableware represents an environmental advantage as long as the number of reuses is maximized and tableware produced in the material that has a lower environmental impact is chosen from those available;
- the use of a local company for washing dishes helps to make the choice of reusable dishes even more advantageous, minimizing the environmental impact associated with transport;
- the size of the event does not appear to be a determining factor from an environmental point of view in the choice or not of adopting reusable dishes.
This is an interesting research that fits well within the discussion, also taking place in our area, regarding the issue of large quantities of waste produced during public events and the need to adopt alternative and sustainable solutions.
Source: Polimerica