Editor,
Help save our planet by doing a simple thing, stop using plastic utensils. Plastic cutlery is everywhere, and most of it can be used only once. Billions of forks, knives, and spoons are thrown away each year. Plastic cutlery can take centuries to break down, working its way into our environment.
The Ocean Conservancy lists cutlery as among the items “most deadly” to sea turtles, birds, and mammals. Convenience has come at a cost. Like many plastic items, utensils often find their way into the environment. According to beach-cleanup data compiled by the non-profit 5Gyres, utensils are the seventh most commonly collected plastic item.
There are things you can do to be part of the solution. To restaurant owners and employees: Just ask your customers if they need them, don’t automatically put them in the bag. Help by educating your customers on the benefits of carrying their own utensils.
To customers: Carry reusable cutlery. People have carried their own utensils for centuries. If you use disposable cutlery, make sure it’s made of a biodegradable or compostable material. Choose to eat at establishments that don’t use plastic utensils.
Keep using single use plastics and they will be part of our diet. The time is now to save our home together.
SHARON ROLL
