Conference dining and disposable one-use dishes

One thing that has always bothered me about conferences is the amount of one-use dishes that are gone through every day. Here at Evolution 2009, there are ~ 1100 registrants, most of whom attend at least 2 out of three meals a day at the dining facilities. About a month ago, I accumulated several backpacker dishes that I keep in my backpack at all times to try to minimize waste. I am using a folding camp plate/bowl, a reusable spork, a steel coffee mug and a nalgene bottle for water (I am following the lead of Dave over at 365 Days of Trash - check out his awesome video).

I have been using the dishes for the last few meals and I have been pretty amazed at how it was received by most other people here, commenting on how great of an idea it was. While they are using disposable dishes, I can reuse mine the whole time. This is my own little way of protecting the planet.

I have an idea for future conferences. Generally at these things you get a bag full of sponsored 'goodies' when you register - pens, water bottles, etc... (I have only seen about 10 people here using there reusable water bottle that they got for registration...). What if the conference was to have their sponsors supply reusable plates and silverware and not offer paper plates? That might make a point. Maybe it is just wishful thinking though.

I love my reusable plates.