Image courtesy of Andrew Millar

Fast food packaging occupies an extraordinarily large part of our landfills. Grilling over 2 billion hamburgers every year, McDonald’s is one of the largest fast food distributors in the world and initiating efforts to reduce waste and encourage sustainability.

The plastic-coated sandwich covers used to wrap Big Macs are usually disposed after only 5 minutes. Coupled with dozens of other food chains which use similar wrapping materials and we’re up to our necks in trash that will take years to clear.

Andrew Millar, a graduate of University of the Arts London, believed that there must be an eco-friendly solution to end the vicious consumption cycle and set about inventing biodegradable McDonald’s packaging. Inhabitat, a leading sustainability and design website, recently featured Millar’s Earth-friendly fast food packaging made from naturally grease-resistant grass paper.

Having noticed that customers usually rip their bags open onto a tray, Millar designed bags which unfold completely to form an eating station. Interior folds prevent the need for further interior packaging and with only 30% of McDonald’s packaging coming from recycled sources, this is a definite step in the right direction.

Although Millar has yet to approach McDonald’s with his creation, the chain’s official website states that they are taking strides towards a more environmentally friendly dining experience. Hopefully, with inventions like Millar’s eco-chic packaging, McDonald’s will be one step closer to turning this objective into reality.