BYOT: Bring Your Own Tupperware
By: Macy Miskiewicz
Ever since I joined EcoReps, I’ve noticed myself becoming more and more conscious of single use items. For the past two years, I’ve worked as a server at Olive Garden and, boy, do we go through a lot of single use take out containers. I mean a disgusting amount.
Thankfully, Olive Garden’s containers are microwave and dishwasher safe, so you can reuse them if you’d like, but I’m sure that many guests are unaware of this. After transferring their leftovers to a plate, boom, that container ends up in the trash and eventually the landfill. If you venture off elsewhere – let’s say Chili’s – they’ll send you with styrofoam containers. Boom. Landfill, again.
Whenever I work a shift at Olive Garden or go out to eat with friends, I make sure to stash a small collapsible tupperware container in my purse, just in case I leave with leftovers. It makes your life so much easier – when you’re done, just scoop your food into your container, tuck it into your purse, and you’re good to go! This especially helps if you’re in a rush; I see a lot of diners come in and rush out to make their 7 o’clock movie. If your favorite restaurant has the pay-at-table kiosks, then you can essentially dip out without bugging or flagging down a waitress for a container and your bill.
Now, let’s talk. For real. Is bringing your own containers tacky? I, for one, don’t think so. If you turn to the internet, however, some people on open chat forums like Reddit and Quora are hesitant to bring their own containers out and about. Here’s my thoughts: do your research! If you’re going to a restaurant with sustainable packaging options, like compostable boxes or bags, don’t sweat bringing your container along as much. If you know the restaurant does not offer sustainable options, definitely consider bringing your own! As a waitress, I would never think my table is tacky for saving the planet. It saves me time and running, too!
Single use containers are often plastic or styrofoam. Be on the lookout, especially at your favorite restaurants, to see what packaging options are available. I know that being sustainable can be difficult. For me, though, I realized that little efforts go a long way. If you can adopt just a few sustainable practices into your life (like this one!) you are making positive change. Now, get out there! Do good! Take your reusable mug to Starbucks, bring your tupperware to Chili’s, and pick up a PSreUse Container in the dining halls on campus.
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