The supple and biodegradable Wasara series is made from reed, bamboo and sugarcane waste.

If a Communion wafer mated with a tulip, their love child would probably look a lot like a Wasara. Such corporal relations are unlikely, but so is the Wasara, a biodegradable series of single-use dinnerware made from reed, bamboo and bagasse pulp (the waste produced from sugarcanes).

Like my Sunday risotto is to a Nigirizushi at Nobu, my words are far too clumsy to capture the subtleties and nuances of Shinichiro Ogata’s design. I’ll leave it to the company to explain:

“Wasara’s elegant flowing forms will accentuate the delicacy of the cuisine choreographing the graceful movements on those who hold them.”

Based on today’s exchange rates, an order of 8 plates costs up to $14. The company is donating a portion of their sales to Red Cross Japan to aid in the ongoing Tsunami recovery.

Look for Lustables daily at EcoSalon. 100% gorgeous green finds, and never sponsored. Submit your favorite to tips@ecosalon.com

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If you’re not getting enough roughage in your diet, you probably didn’t consider devouring on the paper plate underneath your sandwich. There are a few serving utensils, however, that don’t just look good enough to eat, they actually are edible.

The only thing cooler than sipping a mojito while lounging in a hammock, is munching your way through the edible drinking cup when you’re done. This vegan drinkware is made of agar and created in different flavors, like lemon-basil or ginger-mint. Once you’ve slurped down your cocktail, nibble your way around the edges or drop in a compost heap to biodegrade on its own.

Edible bowls – think taco salad – aren’t particularly new, but Italian entrepreneur Tiziano Vicentini has a pretty inventive take on the idea. He’s created a plate made from 100 percent biodegradable dough that’s sturdy enough to withstand soggy soups and sauces, and can even manage a trip through the microwave. Though the center of the plate isn’t meant to be eaten, its perimeter is designed to be torn off and eaten as a cracker or dipping bread.

The next time you’re debating whether to use a big batch of plastic eating utensils at your next party or consider using your own and face washing 200 knives and forks, think about laying out edible cutlery instead. Eco-packaging company Casetta makes forks and spoons out of vegetable pulp and sorghum, which also happen to be naturally high in nutrients like iron, folic acid, and carotene. The utensils are sturdy enough to use in hot or cold food and stay crunchy enough to much when you’re done with your meal. If you do decide to toss them out instead, the cutlery naturally disintegrates within a day.

Blisstree discovered this neat Cookie Cup formed into a cup-shaped pastry and covered in waterproof icing. It’s a perfect way to quaff your coffee or hot tea, then ditch the single-use “trash” in a responsible way. If munching through the used cup doesn’t grab you, at least you can throw it in the garden or compost pile with a clear conscience.

We’re crazy about these gorgeous serving bowls Dutch artist Geke Wouters shapes out of vegetable fibers. Of course their shelf-life is somewhat limited but they’re a perfect way to lend a touch of elegance to your next cocktail party or birthday bash.

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As you revel in 4th of July festivities this weekend, think twice about how eco-friendly your actions are. Keeping your daily habits in check when it comes to organic, sustainable and green will let others see you walk the talk this Independence Day.

(Especially those family members who think you’ve gone overboard with all your eco-efforts. Why let them catch you doing something wrong now?)

Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

Toxic Fireworks?

Too late now but maybe next year, ask your local selectman if they can investigate a greener fireworks display. Fireworks use a nasty oxidizer called potassium perchlorate that provides the oxygen fireworks need to burn. Perchlorate, however, is an environmental pollutant with potential adverse effects on people and wildlife.

Fireworks in the backyard? Put them away and enjoy the big fireworks display with the rest of your town or city.

Buy Local

There are so many organic farms springing up all over you’re bound to have one nearby you. I’m lucky to live on a place like Cape Cod this weekend with lots of fresh seafood as well as veggies. Support your local farmers and fisherman by purchasing all locally grown and harvested foods for your 4th of July party or picnic.

Many of the same farms have beautiful flowers as well for decorating tables; nature’s décor at it’s best.
Doesn’t it feel good to know where your food comes from?

Eat, Drink and Be Merry

Drinking and eating are all par for the course but make sure if the party you’ve gone to doesn’t have recycling you take your own home. Who cares if they see you? Let them feel ashamed that they couldn’t provide the easiest thing possible: A box for recycling.

Conversely, if having your own party, set up bins that are clearly marked where people can recycle bottles, cans, chipboard and whatever else you deem applicable.

Grilling

I’m not sure what the estimated poundage of hamburgers, chicken and hot dogs being grilled this weekend is but I bet it’s a lot. Consider buying all organic meats to support well, your sort of sustainable habit. You can always go for the Tofu Pups and meatless burgers for the veggie friends. Maybe you’ll even convert great Uncle John.

Tableware

Don’t be lazy. I know it’s easy to just grab the cheap pack of Styrofoam or paper plates but consider alternatives if you have the option. Many supermarkets and green stores offer biodegradable plates, cups and utensils made from corn and potato starch that actually compost themselves in the trash bag. Bamboo veneerware is another option, though pricier.

If you’re not wanting to throw so much away, ask people to bring their own plates, cups and utensils. Give small plants to those who remember and get back-up tableware for those who forget.

Decorations

Use nature to decorate. How many things can you find that are red, white and blue? Vibrant red strawberries, juicy blueberries, homemade whipped cream, geraniums and well, the possibilities are endless. Get creative!

Let the kids help, too, using cardboard and scrap paper and a bunch of crayons and see how patriotic they can be. Don’t let the big box stores dictate what your house is supposed to look like. You’re more creative than that!

Bug Spray

You’re sitting on a blanket wrapped tightly with the kids when you hear them approaching your ears and dive-bombing your eyes. They’ve found you – a whining posse of mosquitoes. Before you spray, pay attention to what you’re wearing. Studies have shown those pesky blood suckers like darker clothing better than light. And by now you’ve heard the dangers of DEET so opt for DEET-free sprays.

Mosquitoes are also not fans of wind so if possible, deck the family out in fan hats and rotate your heads clockwise and back as much as possible. (Now that was a joke).

Happy 4th!

Image: James Jordan

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