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I don't know about your neighborhood, but I've yet to find an Indian restaurant that delivers my curry take-out in compostable or sustainable containers. Ditto practically every other dining establishment in the country. Tons of plastic, paper and the dreaded Styrofoam are the norm for packing to-go items, with disastrous implications for the planet. In addition to the eco-consequences, disposable plastics and Styrofoam leach chemicals into food, and much disposable fast food packaging often contains chemicals called PFCs (often labeled as Teflon or Scotchguard) to control stains and grease.

So for the moment at least, its up to the consumer to reduce the footprint and any health risks our take-out habits create. Here's a list of small ways to make your take-out easier on the planet.

No Bag, Thank You.

The growing trend (now an ingrained habit for many) of bringing reusable canvas or cloth bags to the super market applies to all situations where you're leaving with a plastic bag in hand. Keep an eco-friendly sac at work or in your car, and make sure the cashier or server knows that you brought your own alternative!

I'll Drink to That!

Many coffee shops and cafes will gladly use your brought-from-home mug for your hot beverage. You won't even catch an odd look from a Starbucks barista since your good deed is saving them a few pennies on packaging! For everyday java fixes, pick up the stylishly sustainable I Am Not A Paper Cup, a ceramic version of the take-out coffee cup, made for day to day use. Another simple way to cut back on waste is by keeping a compact, handmade Cup Kozy attached to your key chain or bag. By replacing the single-use cardboard sleeves on any size of coffee cups, you're keeping something small out of the trash - but small items definitely build up!

Bring (or try at least) Your Own Containers

Few establishments will allow customers to bring their own to-go containers because of state health codes. It is allowed at some locations though, especially at serve-yourself delis or salad bars, so pack your glass or bamboo containers and give it a try. Another workaround is to keep some aluminum foil handy. While not always the right solution (soup, for example, is a no go), 100% recyclable foil can make a perfect carrier for bagels, sandwiches, and small snacks. And it can be washed and reused over and over before being recycled. If there's no way to get around the plastic or Styrofoam, encourage them to place a liner of tin foil between your food and the container, which will prevent chemical leaching, even when heated.

Utilize Your Own Utensils

This is one area of the take-out world you can dominate! Sometimes your to-go meal comes with a set of plastic utensils, whether they're needed or not, and a mountain of paper napkins. Cut back on this major waste by bringing your own utensils and a cloth napkin from home, and store them at your desk at work or in your bag when you're on the go. If you're constantly on the move, pick up a bamboo travel set from To-Go Ware. Be sure the restaurant leaves the plastic behind, and not in your bag!

Fill Up the Kanteen

We've been singing the praises of Klean Kanteens for ages, but having your own beverage with you during the day means you're less likely to purchase one that comes in a plastic or foam cup. When heading out to lunch or grabbing a snack on the road, refill your empty canteen with juice, tea, or milk for the kids. Another helpful addition is packing a glass or stainless steel straw so you can sip away sans plastic.

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