Summer means picnics, parties and impromptu get-togethers. For me, that also means paper plates. They’re especially great for large groups because there’s nothing to break, everything matches and cleanup is a breeze. But I have to admit, I feel guilty about all that paper going into the landfill.

Preserve tableware by Recycline looks like it could be the answer. The company was founded in 1996 by Eric Hudson, whose company uses innovative methods to make a wide range of products from recycled materials. Preserve’s eco-friendly plates, tumblers and cutlery are all made with 100-percent recycled polypropylene (#5) plastic. The packaging is made of sustainably harvested wood-based plastics and 100-percent post-consumer recycled plastics and paper. You can either use them once and recycle or wash them in the dishwasher and use again.

The bottom line: Preserve tableware may be the future of throw away plates. They are the same as the sturdy, high-quality plastic, but non-recyclable, variety. The price is about the same ($4.50 for 10 small plates), and you can usually wash those in the dishwasher, too. So why wouldn’t you want to buy the variety best for the earth?

The only reason I can think of is that you are one of those cheapskates that buys those thin, flimsy paper plates that come in a huge stack for a few bucks. If that’s the case, good luck to your guests and may your baked beans not collapse in your lap.

The best place to find Preserve tableware is at Whole Foods Markets. Get more prices and information on www.recycline.com.

Lifestyles reporter Sylvia Anderson can be reached at sylviaanderson@npgco.com