Wood vs plastic cutlery

From the change wiki

Both are options for disposible (single-use) spoons, forks and knives.

Research needed

Which one is worse for the planet?

Need to compare:

  • Carbon footprint of production - because (even though plastic is made from oil, and wood isn't), both require energy (typically fossil fuels) in manufacturing
  • Land use in production - and how much of the wood might come from old-growth logging vs tree farming

Both need to be put in perspective against the environmental footprint of the food itself, which might be way bigger.

But in any case

Even "disposible" things can be re-used many times. The really hardcore folks will keep a plastic spoon after using it, carry it in their bag, and the next time they order a meal, say "hey btw I don't need a spoon, I already got one". If you feel that doing this might make you look "weird", I encourage you to be bold and do it anyway, and if anyone questions you, just show them this article. 😉