Are insulated lunch containers really better for the environment?

insulated lunch bags for kids image

Brenda

Yes, we've all heard the hype. Use reusable lunch pails, don't use paper bags, etc. etc. But what about the insulated lunch bags that get thrown out EVERY YEAR!! We need a new one every year. For at least two household members. And from the way the stores get stocked on Labor Day weekend, it's not just us.

So my question is - is the carbon footprint of a reusable, insulated lunch case really better than the carbon footprint for about 250 paper lunch bags? How can you figure this out?

Answer
I see a big problem in your statement. Why would you need a new one each year, I have 2 lunch boxes, one is a tupperware (not insulated) that I've had since the mid 80's, the other is an insulated one that I've had for 3 years and there is nothing wrong with it. I try to reduce the amount of plastic in my life, but this is one area that I think it is a better option. Perhaps you need to find a more durable solution or teach your family to care for things a little better. I see the same problem with backpacks, people want new each year and that has a huge impact on our resources. I buy quality so I buy a lot less often. I also didn't allow my kids to get sucked into the marketing trap of characters, very rarely are they popular with the children more than 1 year and often less than that.

I have a zero waste lunch kit, which means I also don't use disposable containers on the inside. If you are using the lunch bag for such a short time, it may be having a greater impact than paper bags.

What to pack for an outdoor lunch at the park w/ a 3 and 4 yr old?

Red

As soon as it gets warmer (and less snowy/muddy) out, I want to take my 3 and 4 year old to the park a lot. I want to be able to stay there for a few hours and to be able to have lunch there.



I know I should pack plenty of water bottles to keep them hydrated. But what kinds of food should I pack? I can always buy an insulated lunch bag.


I was just hoping for some really good ideas....


Thanks.

Answer
With the distraction of the park kids might not be too willing for a very long sit down lunch. I would pack lots of finger foods like carrots, crackers, maybe some PB and J sandwiches cut into quarters.

If you are planning a longer visit make sure you scoop out the restroom situation first thing.

Sounds like fun - wish I could join you.

EDIT: OPPPSSS what a difference a couple of letters can make - I meant SCOPE out, (as in find, locate, know where they are) not scoop - that would be gross LOL - sorry

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