Questions to Ask Before Purchasing Disposable Products

Ensuring Sustainable Choices

When considering the purchase of disposable products such as plates, utensils, and cups, it is essential to ask the right questions to make informed and sustainable choices. Here are several questions to guide your decision-making process:

Material Composition and What Happens to The Product After It is Used

·         What materials are these products made of? - Are they made from biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials? The free coffee and beverages we serve in our New Buffalo, Michigan store, are served in biodegradable containers.

·         Are the materials safe for food contact? - Ensure that the products are free from harmful chemicals that could leach into food.

Environmental Impact

·         What is the environmental impact of manufacturing these products? - Consider the carbon footprint and energy consumption during production.

·         Are these products certified by any environmental organizations or standards? - Look for certifications like FSC, BPI, or similar.

Cost and Value

·         What is the cost per unit? - Compare the price with other sustainable alternatives to ensure you are getting good value.

·         Are there bulk purchase discounts? - Buying in bulk may reduce the overall cost and packaging waste.

Durability and Functionality

·         How durable are these disposable products? - Assess if they can withstand the intended use without breaking or leaking.

·         Do they serve their purpose effectively? - Ensure that the products meet your needs in terms of size, strength, and functionality.

Disposal and Waste Management

·         How should these products be disposed of? - Determine if they can be composted, recycled, or if they will end up in a landfill.

·         What is the end-of-life impact? - Consider how the disposal process affects the environment and waste management systems.

Legislation and Regulations

·         Are there any local regulations regarding recycling products? - Be aware of laws or bans in your area that may affect your purchase. Not all compostable or dirty recyclable products are accepted in many landfills or at farms because some products are not safe for crops.

·         Do these products comply with health and safety standards? - Ensure they meet all necessary regulatory requirements.

Alternative Options

·         Are there reusable alternatives available? - Reusable products may offer a more sustainable option in the long term. WBC is a big proponent of reusable products rather than single use; consider bringing your own container when dining out in the event you need to bring your food home.

·         Say, NO, to any straws, including paper straws. Paper straws are coated with substances to maintain their strength and are not a much better alternative to plastic.

·         Say, NO, to wrapping tissue and paper and purchase reusable products or bags to wrap your gifts.

·         Say, NO, to disposable greeting cards. WBC has a variety of plantable greeting cards that are a better alternative.

·         Say, NO, to fresh flowers that wilt and are thrown out a few days later; consider purchasing plants that can be planted. We have small vases with small crystal stones that can remain for a lifetime on someone’s table, desk, or bookshelf.

By asking these questions, you can make more conscientious choices that benefit both the environment and your needs. Remember, every small step towards sustainability counts.