Channel NewsAsia 26 Feb 08;
SINGAPORE: ‘Takeaway’ lunch boxes are getting a new, green look.
Made of paper with waterproof lining, these boxes are recyclable - unlike non-biodegradable styrofoam.
Besides green benefits, these boxes are also microwavable and can be reused at least three times after it’s washed.
Unlike plastic and styrofoam boxes, it has air vents - ensuring that fried food doesn't become soggy.
Pressure release valves also keep the food warm.
Materials to make this lunch box are from trees that are under the reforestation plans in Europe. For every one three cut down, seven more will be planted in replacement.
The company started producing these boxes six years ago, mainly to overseas vendors who were more receptive to eco-friendly products.
With growing environmental consciousness, more Singaporeans are catching on to the idea.
More than 10 million boxes were sold locally in 2007.
However, producing these lunch boxes is not cheap. So to help cut down costs for buyers, the box is currently used as an advertising tool.
Leonard Lau, Managing Director of Microwave Packaging, said: “We invite corporations with CSRs (corporate social responsibility), with advertising, to be printed on boxes like this. And they help subsidise the cost, by then we are able to sell it at a lower price to the vendors." -CNA/vm
