paper, it de-composes into the earth much faster than styrofoam. even though it takes trees to make paper plates(people try to replace the trees that are constantly being used for lumber, and many other materials by replanting new seeds), the decomposed paper is much more beneficial to the earth(since it's made of mostly organic material) and can contribute to the health of dirt which trees and other things need to grow and start new life.

Paper does not decompose in an anaerobic landfill. It takes an aerobic environment like a compost pile to decompose wood fiber.

However, because we currently have concerns about global warming; styrofoam, plastic and paper plates disposed of in a landfill sequesters the carbon indefinitely. Biodegrading releases CO2 into the atmosphere so contrary to popular opinion, biodegrading is currently the most harmful to our environment.

The food oils in paper plates prevent the wood fibers in the recycled mulch from matting and this can not be detected till holes form in the newsprint as it's pressed. The oils can be removed with soaps at a cost of additional pollution and water use and because people have been erroneously recycling paper with food oils despite attempts to warn them against doing so, they usually now wash the mulch with soaps. If there's even the remote chance that someone will toss a pizza box into the recycling bin, they have to pollute the water.

Paper... Styrofoam takes a LONG time to deteriorate.

Paper wins on the argument given. I would re-use Glass or Clay.

I'm planning a baby shower and want to know what's more eco-friendly or "green". Styrofoam or paper plates? If I use paper plates can I recycle them? And when it comes to cups; paper, plastic or styrofoam?