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When people think about green dining, organic foods, eco-friendly wines and recycled glassware are usually the first things that come to mind. But flatware--spoons, forks, knives--is another thing to consider when you're in the market for new table trappings.
The best day-to-day flatware is made from stainless steel, though cheaper aluminum flatware is still out there. Mining aluminum or iron and other steel components is hard on the environment, so doing what you can to reduce dependence on mining is a great idea.
Does Recycled Flatware Exist?
Recycled flatware isn't very common--in fact, it's almost non-existent.
The one recycled option is Culinary Conscience's flatware. The thick handles of the forks, knives and spoons are made from recycled sheet metal, and though some people might find it fun for day to day living, it's not exactly the sort of flatware you'd pull out on special occasions.
The other "green" flatware I've come across is Viva Terra's Buttoncap Flatware, which is handmade from stainless steel. If handmade is as green as it gets, I'm not sold.
Search for Second-Hand Treasures
As an alternative to new and green, you may want to think second-hand. Look to quality thrift stores like Goodwill or the Salvation Army for vintage mix and match flatware, and you can even check out estate sales and auctions.
Auctions, estate sales and antiques stores are also great options if you're looking for stunning silverware. Antique silverware is, of course, expensive (not to mention hard to come by) but you can save money if you like mixed and matched silverware.
If you are trying to create your own set of miscellaneous silverware, let local antique dealers know you're interested in incomplete sets.
And don't forget flea markets, check out Flea Queen's guide to the top flea markets in the US.
Cara Smusiak writes on behalf of NaturallySavvy.com about how to live a more natural, organic and green lifestyle.
