Disposable chopsticks are reserved mainly for Chinese take-out in America, but are an everyday staple for several Asian countries. Unfortunately, all of those chopsticks add up to a lot of deforestation.

China is the biggest consumer and exporter of disposable wooden chopsticks, producing 45 billion pairs each year, which uses up about 25 million trees. Last year the Chinese government imposed a 5% tax on disposable wooden chopsticks in an attempt to preserve forests, and Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture introduced a recycling program to turn one-use chopsticks into biofuel.

Instead of reaching for the paper wrapped disposable wooden chopsticks the next time you get take out, bring your own set of bamboo chopsticks or use a fork (just make sure it’s not plastic.)

Artisans are giving second life to used chopsticks. Check out their creations at Chopstickart.com

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