You obviosly own a computer, probably an mp3 player, TV, DVR player, camera, cell phone, your Prius, storage containers and ziplock bags, et al have or use a lot of plastic.  Not sure why it's "wrong".

Regarding your BBQ, I have several cookouts each summer and we use dishwasher safe plastic plates for our guests all the time.  Totally reusable, dishwasher safe and I bought them years ago for a steal . . . something like $0.10 for a six pack and I purchased 10 sets (I bought them after the summer season when the store was trying to rid themselves of seasonal products).

 As far as flatware goes, I'm not sure . . . we use plastic forks and knives.

If your not having a lot of guests, then maybe use your everyday dinnerware.

Hope that helps.

I am in precisely the same dilemma with regards to mother's day.  I was just in Whole Foods and they sell plastic plates made from recyled plastic that can be reused and washed in the dishwasher or not.  They come in really nice colors.  I think they may also have flatware, but I'd probably just use my everyday set or buy plastic.

Something like this would make an immediate impact:

 

And of course there is always the option that Fireman451 suggested of using your regular flatware, perhaps buying a cheaper, lighter set that you could take along with you when you BBQ.

Thanks for the feedback.

I'll stick with the plastic.  I'll go for the hardy kind, washes well.

I was hoping that, maybe, there was some kind of 'bamboo'-ware out there, or something wonderful like that.

Definitely try to use reusable plastic utensils, and for napkins, hey you can even use cloth ones (if you have any, either way it's always good to invest in those). But using recycled products will do it for a green Mother's day.

Be careful of bamboo.  I just read recently, actually at LIME, that bamboo may actually be harvested in a not so green way.  Buy recyled plastic, it's a safer bet.

I have a set of old and odd plates that I have for cook outs and camping. When we go to a cook out I have a plastic bin I put them into and I keep a covered bucket with wet towel in to quick clean. I also use cloth napkins and table cloths. I find it E-Friendly and cheaper.

 

That's a great idea.  Very shaby chic!!! Thanks.

Went to get a haircut today and ate lunch at the nearby Wild Oats Grocery (soon to be Whole Foods).  There's a line of 100% recycled, reusable and dishwasher safe plateware and flatware.

The brand is called PRESERVE Tableware by Recycline.

I'm sure you can purchse these items at your local Wild Oats, Whole Foods, Trader Joes or your favorite enviro-friendly store.

 Here's web link I found online:

http://www.shop.com/op/~Recycline_7_inch_Salad_Plates-prod-38952536-51670275?sourceid=3

Thank you all for the wonderful exchanges!

I checked out my local Salvation Army and found recycled plastic ware and the craziest cloth napkins just looking for a new home.

Now, if only the weather will cooperate tomorrow we should be good to go.

Good luck.  You have put a lot of effort into this, I know you will  have a great day.

Ok, so sharing communal bowls and plates of finger foods might sound incredibly gross, but it's actually a wicked cool conversation starter and a very effective way to cut down on family BBQ waste.

~ Greener today than I was yesterday!

That's actually a great idea, except that people usually want to put there finger food on something.  I guess you would have to serve it so it is very bitesize in nature.  That is really a clever and creative idea.  I always serve salsa and chips and that seems to work.  Maybe some kebabs would work well too.  Thanks!!!