Green Tips #5 – Options for Disposal Plates, Cups and Cutlery

Green Tips is a monthly column featuring insights from Jason Giovannettone, Director of Climate & Sustainability for the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. This series will offer practical, actionable advice to help our schools embrace more eco-friendly practices, aligning with our commitment to the Mercy Critical Concern for Earth.

It can be challenging to find sustainable non-plastic options for disposable cups, cutlery, and plates for schools, especially when it comes to hosting large events. As with most disposable items, companies will use as many buzz words as they can to make them appear to match the environmental values that are important to your school.

For example, one company claims on Amazon that their cups are:

• “100% natural, sustainable, and biodegradable”
• “Can be composted in a commercial facility; it only takes 3-6 months”
• “Made of 100% natural plant-based sustainable materials”
• “Eco-friendly” … “Earth-conscious” … “plastic-free” … “without fear of harming the planet”

These buzz words mean nothing if the product is not certified.

With this in mind, schools should consider companies that are certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) and/or the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

BPI certification indicates that the product is certified to be compostable at least in an industrial facility (more on this in a future article), while there are some companies that manufacture products that are also compostable in home compost bins.

FSC certification ensures that the products are sourced from trees or other plants that were grown and harvested using responsible forestry practices.  Many companies sell certified plates, cups, and/or cutlery and can even be found on Amazon – please see the table below.

Schools and individuals must take care when purchasing any of these products, as the product, especially cutlery, must be sufficiently strong and effective to perform its intended function; therefore, finding the brand that works best may involve some trial and error.

Hints & Habits

Hosting a big event at school? Disposable plates, cups, and cutlery may be necessary—but they don’t have to come at the planet’s expense. Whenever possible, choose products that are certified compostable and sustainably sourced (look for BPI or FSC labels!).

Students can lead the way—at school and at home. Planning a birthday, picnic, or family celebration? Suggest using eco-friendly options that support a healthier planet.

Remember: every small, intentional choice adds up. Choosing sustainable dinnerware is just one more way we can live our Mercy commitment to care for Earth and all who share it.