Zero Waste: Take-out

Imagine you want some Chinese food and don't want the formality of siting-in.  Typically a restaurant is going to hand you a plethora of single-use items.  Utensils, straw, bag, cup, box. Whether plastic or polystyrene (Styrofoam), all of these things can be replaced with reusable items.

UTENSILS
I remind myself that because of their small, many recycling facilities don't even accept plastic utensils.  Utensils are one of those things you could easily forget at home, especially when you are on-the-go.  The next step is leaving a set in your car.   I suggest something better than that.  Put it on your key-chain!  (Check this Swiss Army Utensil out)

 

 Try staying away from the plastic kind, as they can break.  Avoiding buying plastic in general is the best practice as that saves it from having to be recycled (aka eventually becomes toxic to our environment).

STRAW

The reusable straw movement has taken the world by storm.  I personally don't use straws to begin with.  For those who do, here are three different key-chain versions...

 

For those who want it all-in-one, here's a kit for your purse or backpack...

BAG

Just like straws and utensils, plastic bags are difficult to recycle.  Most people don't know that majority of recycling facilities don't accept them.  They have to stop their machines several times a day to cut the plastic bags off pipping.  Instead, drop your bags at your local grocery store or Walmart.  Even better, use reusable bags!  Your grocery store usually will sell some near the check-out.  There are even insulated kinds to keep your food warm or cold.  Check-out these bags for grocery shopping made easy! 

CUP

Did you know to-go cups made of polystyrene (Styrofoam) can't be recycled at all?  Turns out that paper cups are lined with plastic, also not able to be recycled.  Finding the perfect reusable cup is difficult.  Check out my post on ditching plastic water bottles. 

Here's one I use for everything...

BOX

This is the step I'm currently working on.  I love leftovers!  Leftovers are an awesome way to save money and reduce food waste.  All you have to do is tell the staff that you would like to use your own home Tupperware instead.  I have yet to encounter someone that says no.  I did make the mistake of accidentally ordering something with side sauces and ended up with four little plastic cup containers.  Read about in my Weekly Update: 3/15-3/21.  It's a process. Trial and error.  Keep at it!