When time and labor are of the essence, it's easy to choose paper plates over conventional dinnerware that requires washing, drying, and returning to someone's cupboard. So, too, glass tumblers or goblets, silver-plates or stainless cutlery … they all require washing and storing and, for big crowds, several people may be called upon to bring the necessary number of plates and cutlery needed to serve the number of people at your school, office, or family event.

And yet---it's difficult to not be aware that disposable plastics and paper goods put an extra burden on our already compromised environment, but the good news is that disposables aren't what they used to be.

Many eco-friendly manufacturers have really stepped up to the plate (ouch!) and created tableware that's truly environmentally friendly. Look for items made with "compostable" elements such as vegetable (potato starch) or bagasse (sugar cane fiber).

Many new paper products contain up to 100% recyclable paper, or are made from a combination of GMO-free 90% sugar cane fiber and 10% wood pulp. Think of compostable products as those which were made from previously composted materials and those which can easily be tossed into a compost for natural recycling.

Opt for plasticware made from PLA (polylactide) which is a clear plastic-like polymer made from biodegradable corn. The PLA products first use the dextrose processed from the vegetable starch which is fermented, condensed, and distilled then turned into a polymer which can be shaped into cutlery, cups or plates.
Look for the ASTM label that indicates that biodegradable products meet ASTM standards for products made from renewable resources. ASTM International is the American Society for Testing and Materials, a voluntary standards development organization.

The better news is that there are great ways to ease the burden of quantity paper and plastic goods at home or away at organization events, community gatherings or other occasions.

Here are just a few ideas to make them all "green":

• Choose recycled paper decorations and party favors rather than plastic.
• Choose paper over Styrofoam every time. Even choose plastic coolers; they last a really long time and are so much better than Styrofoam. Styrofoam takes eons to disintegrate. In fact, we're still waiting…
• Opt for re-useable plastic plates, cups and cutlery over paper. Then, do wash and reuse. Many brands can withstand multiple re-uses without compromising strength or style.
• Use cloth napkins and avoid the waste when people take bunches of paper napkins and leave most unused. If you're a guest, bring your own cloth napkin!
• Bring your own cup and use it at the office, at vending coffee machines, or at the local coffee shop (imagine how much paper that will save!)
• It's long been a girlie thing to bring your own teacup to tea parties where part of the conversation is how you got your cup and what its story is all about. Rinse and take home, then wash.
• If you're at a family event where the best china, silverware, and goblets are used, mind your manners. Offer to help with the dishwashing. Hey, everyone else cooked, decorated, and presented the buffet, so pitch in with cleanup. You'll feel good giving back, you'll be newly aware of all the time and effort it takes for holiday dinners, and you'll make your mom so proud!