The growing concerns about the environmental impact of plastic waste have sparked a conversation about sustainable practices in our daily lives. Most of us started reevaluating our choices.

From household products, and cosmetics, to packaging, and food cutleries, most of us are trying to move toward more environmentally friendly products and behaviours. While using edible straw, reducing the use of paper and plastic has become a new normal, one area where the change is becoming more pronounced is in tableware. 

People are choosing sustainable tableware which is no longer than just a passing trend. If you are looking to make environmentally conscious decisions in your daily lives, here are a few tips to bring sustainability to your table. 

Nivedita Jegadeesh, the founder of Sobe Decor observes that people have become more conscious of sustainability and choosing products that are environment friendly. 

"I think the smallest change can lead to a big environmental shift. Tableware may be a small thing but this is a step that brings style and materials that are beautiful and better for the planet," says Jagdeesh. Sustainable Tableware

As they say, 'Every Step Counts', moving to sustainable choices can never go wrong. To start with sustainable tableware can help the environment in a big way. The damage caused by plastic, urgently demands a replacement to more eco-friendly alternatives.

 "Consumers are buying more sustainable materials that are environmentally-friendly as well as stylish. Porcelain, bone china, and ceramics are preferred choices," says Jagadeesh.

These materials are durable, elegant, and sustainable, which make them ideal for those who want to make a positive impact on the planet as well as make their table look beautiful.

Why Sustainable Tableware?

When thinking about sustainability, one may think of making a big change, but a small change like replacing your tableware with more eco-friendly products can make a huge impact on the planet. Here are some of the reasons, you should move toward more sustainable tableware.

Durability:

The most popular choice of material, plastic is prone to wear and tear. However, porcelain, bone china, and ceramics have longevity. These materials are strong, resistant to breakage, and can be used daily.

It may cost more than plastic cutlery would, but investing in this tableware reduces the replacement pain and lasts longer, which covers the cost you spend on repeated purchases of plastic after damage

Health Friendly:

These materials are chemical-free. These natural materials are non-toxic, which makes them healthier options for your health.

Eco-Friendly:

All these materials can be recycled and many of them are made using eco-friendly manufacturing processes. If you use these materials by replacing plastic, you are contributing to a healthier environment as well as the conservation of natural resources.

Style and Versatility:

If you think sustainable tableware would look boring and won't complement your overall home décor, you are mistaken. While they serve a practical purpose, these tableware also enhance the look and feel of the dining experience.

Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or casual gathering, porcelain, bone china, and ceramic tableware can add extra flavour to any meal, in terms of aesthetics. You can choose from intricate patterns to minimalist designs, as these materials have endless possibilities to curate a stunning table setting.

So, the next time you set your table, choose a piece that reflects your values. Ditch the plastic, embrace sustainability, and dine with purpose.

Environment activist Abhishek Bhargava Joshi is of the opinion that plastic should be replaced with more sustainable options. For instance, plastic tableware has been part of Indian households at large gatherings and special occasions.

However, he says plastic plates, cutlery, and cups contribute to the global pollution crisis. "Plastic takes years to dissolve and it ends up in the oceans, which is harmful to marine life. 

This needs urgent attention and people should shift to more sustainable alternatives," recommends Bhargava.

Additionally, plastic is not only harmful to the environment but also poses an immense threat to our health. Harmful chemicals like BPA that are used in plastic products can leach into food and drinks, eventually leading to health risks.

Undoubtedly, porcelain and bone china are elegant, timeless, and high-quality. These materials are known for their durability and classic aesthetics. Both are made using natural, and sustainable materials which are recyclable, unlike single-use plastics.

"Ceramics are also durable and can be made with a focus on sustainability. These designs last for generations, which reduces the frequency at which one would replace the materials," says Jagadeesh.

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Biophilic Design, Modular Multifunctional Furniture