Back in July 2018, Disney announced that it would be moving away from all plastic single-use goods at its parks and resorts, which included the full transition to paper straws that took place throughout this past year. They’ve also removed lids from most counter service locations, a move that required a transition to a different cup manufacturer altogether, due to structural issues with the older cups. Now that they’ve tackled plastics, it seems the company is moving towards more sustainable paper goods, as compostable plates are making more and more appearances at quick service locations throughout Walt Disney World.
We first spotted compostable paper plates around late August while reviewing new limited time foods for the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Since these were limited-time offerings, we figured the compostable bowls were a temporary thing, but even more compostable plates have appeared at the park. A new, larger compostable bowl was just rolled out this month at Fairfax Fare and Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land.
According to Better Earth, the sustainable foodservice packaging company behind these new bowls, these plates are made with 100% compostable, unbleached bamboo fiber. They’re oil resistant and can withstand hot and cold foods, plus the heat of a microwave. (Don’t get any wild ideas, Tony’s Town Square.)
We opted for a bowl of Totchos at Woody’s Lunch Box to put these new compostable bowls to the test. You know, for research. They’re surprisingly sturdy and comfortable to eat from, without the usual wobble of thin paper bowls or plates.
Brands we’ve seen used in the past few months include Better Earth and World Centric, and according to Cast Members, it’s a decision that’s usually left to the chefs at each specific location. (Chefs, if you have any further input, feel free to contact us!)
These compostable cups with lids were rolled out back in August.
We’ll be on the lookout for more locations using these new compostable plates. While we’d be losing the classic Walt Disney World-themed plates of vacation lore, non-bleached eco-friendly plates are definitely a step in the right direction, and on course with the company’s environmental initiative.
What do you think of this transition to compostable paper plates instead of classic Walt Disney World paper plates?
