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Thinking like this is why we have TONS (and I do mean that literally) of compostable or reusable materials flooding into landfills. I see no reason NOT to reuse a cardboard carton if it is clean. If they're not clean, they make good seed starters and are biodegradable. Once the seedlings are well established, you can cut the sections apart and bury them in the soil without taking the seedlings out if you choose, or the seedlings can be removed and put directly into the soil. The cartons that are too soiled or torn can be put into your compost pile if you have one. Styrofoam may be more easily washed/disinfected, but it is not biodegradable. It does not break down unless hit with a solvent or heat. In other words, a styrofoam cup now, if not exposed to solvents or extreme heat, will still be a styrofoam cup 100 years from now. I don't use styro plates or cups anymore, and haven't for a long time.