How to Dine A Little Greener

In the summertime I get the urge to eat out more. The longer days and opportunity for al fresco dining (one of my favorite little pleasures in life) just make restaurants that much more enjoyable for me.

I frequent establishments that boast the use of organic and local ingredients, along with lots of vegan and vegetarian hot spots. But, I also head to restaurants that aren’t necessarily well known for any of these things.

While dining I’m often on the lookout for how restaurants measure up in the eco-friendly department. Here are some practices that help keep businesses in the food industry greener. Don’t be shy – suggest some of these next time you’re at one of your favorite spots.

Green restaurant practices (listen up restaurant managers!):

• Using local and organic ingredients as much as possible
• Refilling water, coffee and other beverages only when people ask
• Recycling materials according to the city’s ordinances
• Use green cleaning products and rags instead of paper products whenever possible (this can get tricky given some sanitation codes – but it doesn’t hurt to explore alternatives.)
• Say no to styrofoam and use biodegradable takeout containers and utensils
• Don’t use paper takeout menus, stick to laminated, reusable menus
• Use energy efficient dishwashers

 Posted by Beth