Every year on April 22, Earth Day invites us to reflect on the impact of our daily habits on the environment. While we often think of energy, transportation, or home recycling, we sometimes forget that our food consumption lies at the heart of environmental challenges. From where our food comes from to the packaging it comes in, every action counts. What if change started... on our plates?

The hidden cost of our food consumption

The food industry is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and the pollution of soil and oceans. But beyond what's on our plates, it's also the packaging around it that raises concerns. Single-use packaging made from non-recyclable plastic continues to account for a large share of household waste. Even worse: much of it ends up polluting nature despite existing collection systems.

Rethinking packaging: a tangible way to take action

Choosing a more sustainable diet isn't just about what we eat — it’s also about how food is served, transported, and consumed. Opting for eco-friendly food packaging is now a meaningful step. Cardboard, bagasse, wood, and even recycled or compostable materials offer real alternatives to plastic. And contrary to popular belief, they are just as practical, durable, and affordable.

Professionals already paving the way

More and more restaurant owners, caterers, grocery stores, and hotels are switching to more responsible packaging. This shift is driven not only by regulations but also by growing consumer awareness — people care about what they buy and how it’s packaged. Specialized platforms like Covr, a marketplace dedicated to sustainable solutions for the foodservice industry, make this transition easier by offering a full range of products that respect the planet and meet the needs of professionals.

What if we started today?

Earth Day is a reminder. A moment when each of us can choose to change a habit. In the food sector, this could begin simply: switching to kraft bowls instead of plastic, choosing compostable cups, or opting for wooden cutlery kits. These small decisions can have a powerful collective impact.

Conclusion: simple actions, lasting effects

Shifting how we use food packaging is also a way to promote a more conscious lifestyle. For professionals, it’s a visible and concrete way to commit. For consumers, it’s a chance to make choices aligned with their values. And for the planet, it’s a breath of fresh air in a daily struggle fought with every small gesture. What if, on this Earth Day, we saw sustainable packaging not as the end — but as the beginning?