Meetings & Events
There are a myriad of sustainability concerns that come up when planning a large meeting or event, ranging from the types of food and drink that are offered to the use of plastic products that can be easily disposed of after the event is finished. All too common is the scene during which each table's disposable plastic tablecloth is used to wrap up the food and material waste on that table prior to being thrown in the trash. Alternatives for various food and material items are provided below to help make your meeting or event more sustainable.
Cups
Many paper cups contain an inner plastic lining to prevent liquid from soaking in. Obtaining the wood to produce paper often involves deforestation and habitat destruction. Look for cups that are both certified compostable (BPI) and sourced from sustainable materials (FSC). Maytree is one of the only brands that has both certifications. Their cups range from 8 to 16 oz and are appropriate for both cold and hot drinks.
Cutlery
Reusable silverware is the preferable option when attempting to reduce waste. If disposable cutlery is desired, look for BPI-certified compostable plant-based options. Examples include Biocean, Degralight, Ecovita, and Misisipi. Bamboo is also an option, though trial-and-error may be needed to find an effective (and preferably FSC-certified) brand. Examples include EarthClusive, EcoPreps, and Ecovita.
Coffee & Tea
Deforestation from unsustainable coffee growing practices contributes to deforestation, especially in Mexico and Central America. Buying coffee and tea certified Fair Trade and/or by the Rainforest Alliance or Ethical Tea Partnerships (ETP) supports ethical sourcing , sustainable livelihoods for workers, gender equality, sustainable land use, and a lower carbon footprint. Examples include Equal Exchange, Capeltic Coffee, Tony's Coffee, China Mist, David's Tea, Numi, and Tazo.
Napkins & Paper Towels
Raw materials used to produce paper and bamboo products often require the clearing of forests and/or are grown in areas essential to the survival of indigenous populations and wildlife. Look for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) as having been grown sustainably. Examples include Grove Collaborative, Caboo, and Mother Earth.
