Over the last few years, the world is becoming increasingly aware about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution which in turn is resulting in growing demand for sustainable alternatives that can replace single use plastics products in our daily lives. One such eco-friendly alternative that is gaining popularity among the masses particularly in India, is the Patravali plate and bowls, which are made from tree leaves. But what exactly are these leaves? And why are Patravali plates considered a sustainable choice? Let’s understand it in more details.
What Are Patravali Plates & Bowls?
Patravali plates are organic, biodegradable and disposable plates made from the leaves of certain trees, primarily the Sal and Palash that grow abundantly in the forests. This traditional method of plate-making has been practiced for centuries, especially in rural areas. The leaves are collected, cleaned, and stitched into round shape using twigs – this is a natural technique of holding the leaves together without using any adhesive or chemicals.
Types of Leaves Used
- Sal Leaves: The Sal tree (Shorea robusta) is abundant in many parts of India. The large and sturdy leaves make them the perfect raw material for making the plates. The natural structure of the Sal leaves provides strength and durability, making the resulting plates an excellent choice for serving food.
- Palash Leaves: The Palash tree is known for its vibrant flowers and grows abundantly in the forests of Dahanu and Jawhar. Its leaves have been traditionally been used for making disposable plates because of their sturdiness and biodegradability.
Why Are Patravali Plates Sustainable?
- Biodegradability: One of the main reasons for the popularity of the Patravali plates and bowls is that they are biodegradable. Unlike plastic, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, the leaves are naturally disposable and decompose within a few months, returning essential nutrients to the soil, making Patrawali plates and bowls an environment friendly tableware particularly during festivals, parties and weddings.
- Renewable Resource: The trees grow continuously and shed leaves during autumn – this makes it a renewal resource that can be harvested through the year without causing harm to the environment. This in tuen encourage the local communities to plant more trees.
- Low Carbon Footprint: The leaf plate and bowl making process is relatively simple and does not require complex machinery – this in turn leads to lower energy consumption and lower carbon footprint. Hence, the production procsess does not lead to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Support Local Economies: This is where technology meets tradition. The local tribal women make these plates and bowls – hence, by choosing to buy the patrawali plates and bowls, consumers can help sustain local livelihoods and encourage preservation of traditional methods.
- Chemical-Free Production: Patravali plates are made as per traditional process followed for generations – there is absolutely no use of harmful chemicals or preservatives. This makes them food grade and also promotes alternative to plastics.
Conclusion
Alternatives like Patrawali provides a glimmer of hope in a world that is grappling with the environmental impact of personal choices. Made from abundantly available and replenishable tree leaves, these plates and bowls promote sustainability through their biodegradability, minimal carbon footprint, and support for local economies. By using Patravali plates and bowls, we can take a significant step toward reducing dependence on plastic products, nurturing our environment, and honouring cultural traditions.
In a world where the consequences of personal choice are becoming increasingly evident, choosing sustainable materials for everyday use is something that we can easily do thereby making our little contribution towards the sustainability of the environment in the long run.