Disposable Plates and Plastic Implements

The use of disposable plates and plastic implements is having a harmful effect upon the environment. The increase in their use can be largely attributed to three social factors: cultural changes in the perception of meals and family time, the capitalist economic system, and an increased pace of human tasks. Early human food implements were made of more durable materials. Knives were made of various materials, including rock and obsidian. Vessels for food storage, cooking, and serving were made of clay and pottery as early as 2000 B.C.E. Forks in the Chinese Qijia culture were made of bone (ca. 2000 B.C.E.). These materials made the implement durable enough for repeated use by many generations.

In modern society, different materials have been used to construct utensils and other cookware. In the 21st century, many human food implements are made of ceramics, glass, or melamine (plates and bowls) and stainless steel (cutlery). These inexpensive, durable, and reusable materials have become less desirable as people seek alternatives to accelerate food preparation, consumption, and cleanup.