From Branchhome.com, check out this sturdy dinnerware made from bagasse, a starchy byproduct of the sugar-refining industry. They are disposable, biodegradable, and compostable. Unbleached and food-safe, they're microwavable, freezer safe, oil resistant, and can be used for both hot and cold food and drink.
• Hilo set of two Bamboo Cutting Boards, $15 (picnicfun.com/products/hilo-light-bamboo-cutting-board-set)
Of course you'll need something to slice that fabulous loaf of artisanal bread you packed. Once again, bamboo to the rescue. Technically a grass and not a tree, bamboo is a fast grower—up to 2 inches per day—and thus quite renewable. And don't worry, there's plenty for us and the pandas! From Hilo, these lightweight cutting boards are perfect for carting around, while at the same time are as durable and strong as traditional maple boards.
• Cold Beverage Cups (50 9 oz cups), $7 (branchhome.com)
Also from Branch, these cold beverage cups will have you thinking plastic but feeling fantastic about the good you're doing for mother earth. Made from PLA, (polylactic acid or Polylactide), a material derived from corn and other 100 per cent renewable vegetable resources, they are biodegradable and compostable and break down in about 120 days.
• Biodegradeable Fork, Knife and Spoon (50 of each), $14 (branchhome.com)
Sturdy and reusable, this cutlery is made from 80 per cent potato starch and 20 per cent vegetable oil. But if you don't want to use it twice, don't fret, the pieces are also biodegradable and compostable and will break down after about 180 days.
• Eco-Friendly Picnic Basket, $115 (shop.com)
This elegant eco picnic basket set for two is composed of 100 per cent renewable resources; the woven shell is made of willow, while the fabric lining and napkins are made from dye- and chemical-free cotton. The basket includes bamboo plates, utensils, and cutting board as well as wine goblets made from recycled glass. Everything tucks away beautifully in this pretty basket.
Don't miss our complementary photo gallery: How to make your picnic greener >
Picnic linens: Cloth vs. paper
The numbers are fuzzy, but one thing we do know for sure is thousands of trees are felled to make paper napkins and towels with "virgin wood" for something we use once and then throw away. What a waste! You can help lessen the negative impact on the forests in a few simple ways.
Tip: Buy recycled paper napkins and other household paper products, claiming to contain a high percentage of post-consumer paper.
• Napkins with Ties (set of four), $38 (branchhome.com)
Soft, elegant fabric napkins turn any meal into an occasion. These beauties are made from reclaimed vintage linen and cotton.
Tip: Don't forget second-hand shops are a great place to seek out cloth napkins for picnics and outdoor entertaining. Have fun. Mix and match. A thrift shop is also a great place to score a classic picnic basket, cooler, some ice packs and a blanket or tablecloth for everyone to spread out on.
Page 2 of 3: See next page for best beverages, picnic menus, plus eco-friendly bug sprays and sun blocks
