EdibleAspen had a great article on disposable cookware and how it impacts the environment. Somewhere in the last 40 years we think it is okay to use utensils only once and throw it away. Is it really that hard to do a load of dishes? I hate drinking wine or cocktails out of a plastic cup. Not to mention who knows what is leaking into our drinks from plastic containers. Lets say no to paper plates, plastic silverware and plastic cups. Bring your own utensils to parties or take out. It will be a huge mind shift but I know when I get take out I put everything on a real plate and use my own silverware because it makes the food taste better.
In the article they had a great idea. Go to your local thrift store and pick up cheap utensils and plates and take those to a picnic or use for a party. They cost about the same and you can reuse them for your next party!