Normally, we’re not a big fan of disposables when it comes to dish- or flat-ware. Cups or plates made from Styrofoam are difficult to recycle, and so usually end up in landfills for near-eternity. And similar paper items may biodegrade more quickly, however, they’re a big drain on resources. Since no one wants to lug a nice set of glasses, dishes, and silverware to the beach, park, or campground, this disposable dilemma can sometimes make planning a casual outdoor picnic or barbecue somewhat challening.

Enter Bare, a new line of earth-friendly disposable dishware by Solo. Many of their plates and cups are made from plant-based, renewable resources instead of plastic, and are also easily compostable. The cups that are made from plastic contain 20% post-consumer recycled material, and are easily recyclable.

And yes, when it comes to going green, Solo really means it. To demonstrate their commitment, they’ve partnered with the Keep America Beautiful campaign, whose mission is to prevent litter, reduce waste, and increase recycling. Donations from the Bare by Solo line will support helping consumers learn all about ways to keep our country–and our planet–looking great.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

If a Prius is beyond your budget right now, try a new kind of hybrid: gDiapers.  Perfect for the eco-conscious mom-to-be who isn’t quite ready to embrace cloth diapers full on, gDiapers are made of a washable cotton outer with a disposable, plastic-free liner that can be flushed down the toilet, composted, or tossed in the trash (they decompose in about 90 days.)  A starter kit is available at gDiapers.com, or try their gBaby Shower Gift, featuring the starter kit, an extra cloth outer, and a case of flushable refills.  Oh, and the “g”?  It stands for green!

Marygrace, KIWI intern

Every week I take out my trash and ask myself, “Is ALL of this stuff really mine?” While I am conscious of my trash consumption, some things are unavoidable. However, some things can easily be forgotten.

Here’s Planet Green’s list to let us know what disposable products we can end our relationships with:

1. Bottled water
2. Diapers
3. Air filters
4. Paper towels
5. Wrapping paper
6. Individually-wrapped foods
7. Takeout food
8. Feminine products
9. Razors
10. Furniture

Their honorable mention: Takeout chopsticks

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and seeker of ways to reduce trash consumption