Let's Use Less Plastic!
Empowering Restaurants to Lead the Way in Reducing Plastic Waste
Restaurants are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact in the fight against plastic waste, as they are central to community interactions and consume large quantities of single-use plastics daily. By making simple shifts, like using reusable or compostable serviceware, restaurants can lead by example and demonstrate that sustainability is a necessary practice, not just a buzzword. On Cape Cod, restaurants are often the first point of contact for locals and visitors, and by prioritizing sustainability, they can set a powerful example that encourages others to follow suit. This ripple effect can inspire other businesses and consumers to rethink their plastic use, fostering a more sustainable future for the region.
Benefits to Using Less Plastic
Attract Eco-Conscious Diners
Customers increasingly choose restaurants that align with their environmental values. By reducing plastic use, you’ll appeal to a growing audience of diners who prioritize sustainability and are more likely to support businesses that share their commitment to protecting the planet.
Strengthen Your Brand
Becoming a sustainability leader sets your restaurant apart in a competitive industry. Highlighting your efforts to reduce plastic waste in marketing, menus, and social media builds your reputation and attracts positive attention from the community and visitors alike.
Reduce Costs Over Time
Switching to reusable serviceware can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. While single-use plastics seem inexpensive upfront, their recurring costs add up. Reusables offer a one-time investment that pays off over time.
Build a Supportive Community
Joining the coalition connects you with other restaurants, businesses, and organizations committed to reducing plastic use. You’ll share challenges, solutions, and successes while working together to create a more sustainable service industry on Cape Cod.
Prepare for Policy Changes
Legislation banning single-use plastics is growing worldwide. By proactively transitioning to sustainable alternatives now, your restaurant will be ahead of the curve and ready for future regulations, avoiding last-minute adjustments.
Protect Cape Cod’s Waters and Your Customers
By cutting back on plastic, you’re not only helping the environment but also protecting your customers. Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into our waters, affecting marine life and potentially entering the food chain. Making the switch to more sustainable options helps keep Cape Cod’s waters cleaner and safer, ensuring a healthier, more vibrant future for both the community and the environment.
Pledge to Use Less Plastic in Your Restaurant
By signing this pledge, your restaurant commits to taking simple, meaningful steps to reduce plastic waste and embrace more sustainable alternatives. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
As a participant, you commit to:
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Minimizing Single-Use Plastics: Reduce plastic straws, cutlery, and containers by exploring alternatives such as compostable or reusable options.
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Switching to Eco-Friendly Serviceware: Gradually replace plastic serviceware with compostable or reusable alternatives, starting with items that are easy to change.
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Educating and Encouraging Customers: Add a few signs or share with your team the benefits of using less plastic, and encourage customers to help by saying “no” to unnecessary plastic items.
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Getting Support and Resources: Stay connected with the Use Less Plastic Coalition for guidance, workshops, and ideas to make your transition easier.
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