Biodegradable Place Settings
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 07.21.05
We wrote about disposable dinnerware from sinlessbuying.com awhile back that was made from 100% Bagasse, a fibrous pulp left over after processing sugarcane. Similar to these “party plates without problems” are these place settings found at Gaiam. What do the two have in common? They can both be tossed in the compost pile. These place settings are made from switchgrass, which is a high-yield perennial grass that is native to North America. They are then covered in cornstarch to provide strength, even when wet, and durability. The set is dishwasher safe so they can be re-used over and over and the cutlery is heat tolerant up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. A set of 12 plates, cups and cutlery is $15.99. ::Gaiam
Note: The Gaiam link above leads to a "this product is not available" page, but if you go to their kitchen, and then tabletop section, you'll find these items.
Hooray for switchgrass, and companies like Gaiam!
Wow, good to know. We just planted about 5 acres of switchgrass as part of a government conservation program. You cut it twice a year and just let it compost in place. Glad it has other uses. The price might be a turn off to most, but the market should build up in a few years, or so we'd hope.