An Investigation Into the Material Options for the Eco-Box Program

Abstract

The Eco-Box program is meant to be a sustainable alternative to using disposable food containers in the new SUB. Reusable containers are given out to students with food in them, and then returned to an AMS food outlet to be washed and reused. When choosing the material to be used for the containers, many different factors must be considered. Most importantly, the chosen material must be light-weight and non-breakable. This report compares three different types of materials, plastic, metal, and wood, which could potentially be used for the Eco-Box. First, a triple-bottom-line analysis is done on each material, evaluating the environmental, economical, and social impacts. These materials are then compared to each other to determine which would be the most appropriate to use. From an environmental standpoint, wood would be the best material to use for the Eco-Box. It is the most environmentally friendly material of the three, as well as aesthetically pleasing, microwave and dishwasher safe, hygienic, and is light weight. However, wood is quite expensive when used as a food container. The second best option is plastic. It is the least environmentally friendly of the three materials, but it is the cheapest. Plastic is microwave and dishwasher safe, and has a watertight seal, but there are associated health risks with certain types of plastics. The new SUB is aiming to be an environmentally conscious and sustainable building, focusing on renewable resources and low environmental impact products. Therefore, wood is the recommended material for the Eco-Box.