About a year or two ago, I decided I would simply not use disposable cups, plates, or silverware. (So-called silverware, plastic forks et al) unless they could be washed and reused. When I go to meetings and conferences, I bring a mug, my own silverware, et al. Much of what I eat can just be consumed without utensils. If I forget to bring a mug, I just don't drink anything. I am able to stick to this personal practice pretty easily. I see it as more than just a eco-habit and entering into a spiritual practice.
There are some situations which have proven to be too awkward in which to observe this prohibition, though. When I am a guest at someone's house and they directly serve food to me on paper plates, I accept it. Who wants to be the one at the birthday party to throw sand? I have yet to have the nerve to directly confront someone and say, "Sorry, I don't eat on disposable plates. In my book, they aren't kosher." Maybe someday I'll get there, but not yet. I suppose I could also take my bamboo plate to people's homes just in case the dreaded disposables appear on the table, but that does seem a little holier-than-thou. And I would like to be invited back to people's houses!
Any one out there taken the pledge? Just found a group online, called - cleverly - Refuse, the Plastic Pollution Coalition.
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