This is in response to “No plastic homage to our heroes” (GDN, September 29) by Meera Ravi, about food waste and plastic trash at parties and celebrations.
Thank you so much for your article! That is a difficult topic that needs to be addressed. What do you do at a party with a lot of single-use plastic, or festive gifts wrapped in plastic? After all, these are people we know, who have invited us, and who really want everyone to enjoy themselves. It may not have occurred to them, or if it did, they may have done what’s expedient. I think that, rather than shaming your hosts, we should all promote more public awareness, set good examples, and look for items and businesses promoting sustainable practices.
Remember to ask, when ordering items for a party, and suggest to a party provider, for example, that they have the option of fabric draw-string bags rather than plastic. Try to find someone to provide real dishes and cutlery, even if they aren’t providing food.
There may be more creative or off-beat solutions to come up with, such as people bringing items, party sharing, or making the cutlery the give-away gifts. It should not be looked down upon, to be respectful of the environment.
These things are difficult in the beginning, but if more people request them, they will become more available. If there is a good idea that is difficult to find, that could be a business opportunity for someone to start.
Hopeful
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