learn a little about green serviceware

We all create trash; like it or not, it's a reality of modern life. Single use serviceware like cups, napkins and take out containers are certainly part of the problem, but they are a convenience that is hard to give up. Many of us like the idea of reducing trash by bringing our own water bottle or coffee mug, but let's face it, there are occasions when that just doesn't happen. Yet more and more often consumers are choosing - even demanding - products and packaging that are more planet friendly. Green serviceware that is compostable or recycled is part of the solution.

WHAT MAKES SERVICEWARE "GREEN"?

• Less water, energy and chemicals are used in manufacturing
• Made from rapidly renewable plant fibers (not petroleum) or recycled materials
• Compostable, biodegradable and/or recyclable
• No carcinogenic petroleum chemicals leached into our food

A few key "green" terms:

BAGASSE is the reclaimed bio-waste (fiber) left after the extraction of juice from sugarcane. It is 100% biodegradable and home compostable. Bagasse products have a natural, sturdy look and feel. They are grease, cut and heat resistant, microwavable and freezable. Bagasse is also over safe to 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

BPI CERTIFIED products are tested by the not-for-profit Biodegradable Products Institute. These products are certified to meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 testing standards. Not all biobased products biodegrade completely, so look for the BPI Compostable logo .

COMPOSTABLE means a product can completely break down - safely and quickly by biologic means - into natural raw materials and once again become part of the environment.

FSC or SFI CERTIFICATION ensures that paper and other tree-based products are sourced from responsible managed forests. Both the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative are independent, not-for-profit organizations.

INGEO is a trademarked brand name for a range of PLA linings made from plants. This lining makes our hot cups and food containers leakproof and also fully compostable. (Most linings are petroleum based, making the cups and containers non-compostable.)

PLA (Polylactic Acid) or "bioplastic" is made from annually renewable plant resources like corn or sugarcane. It has the look and feel of traditional plastic, but is not suitable for hot food. Our PLA products are made from 100% US-grown corn and are compostable in a commercial composting facility (but unfortunately not in your home composter).

RENEWABLE RESOURCES are readily replenished naturally, like the plant materials used to make most of our products, as opposed to non-renewable petroleum-based products like traditional plastics and styrofoam.