Disposable, compostable plates have been around for quite some time, but when your earthenware dinnerware gets chips and you toss it out, it goes straight into the landfill. One company wants to make your everyday dishes compostable, too.
Ethos Planetware has been in the works for more than two years, and now, it’s finally ready for consumers. Planetware is tableware made from plants, specifically bamboo, rice husk and corn. During the manufacturing process, heat and pressure are used to mold all of Planetware’s ingredients together to create everything from plates to cups, and a bioplastic made from cornstarch acts as a glue, binding everything together.
You might already be asking yourself how a vegetable-based plate will hold up over time. Luckily, all Planetware is safe in the dishwasher and microwave. Additionally, they are designed to be shatterproof and have a two-year warranty.
Once you’re ready to say goodbye to your Planetware, you can simply throw the dishes away. After you’ve discarded them, the plates and cups will compost completely in two years.
Planetware comes in five different colors: Elderberry Red, Alder Orange, Sassafras Yellow, Matcha Green, and Natural. Vegetable dye gives it various colors to ensure it fits in with the average homeowner’s kitchen. There are no synthetic dyes or chemicals used in Planetware, meaning you can have peace of mind knowing your dishware is eco-friendly.
The Dinner for Eight Planetware set retails for $258, but its Kickstarter page currently has a pledge option that offers the set for $114 for early birds. Its estimated delivery date is slated for June 2015, and it comes with eight cups, bowls, salad plates and dinner plates.
It’s worth noting that Planetware also makes smaller individual items, such as travel mugs, for those who don’t want to splurge on an entire family dinner set. Backers only need to pledge $18 to receive the Traveler Mug, which comes with a hemp sleeve and a tight-sealing bamboo lid.
