There is a huge amount of packaging waste. Several groups are working on creating wrappers and containers that are edible, soluble and with flavour. You can drink coffee from a cup and then eat the cup itself. A cocoa packet can be put into hot water and its casing dissolves. Edible packaging is inspired by nature  — see how we munch through apples and grapes which are encased in protective layers.

David Edwards, Harvard, has created WikiCells  — a skin that combines small particles of dried fruit, chocolate shavings or other edibles. It is held together by electrostatic force. Monsolo, an Indiana-based company, is making a similar film using polymers. Loliware, NY-based firm has moulded edible biodegradable cups from natural pectins and cane juice, and they are infused with flavour. Eventually, all packaging should be eligible.