Dining out can create a lot of waste, especially take-out. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the waste produced from going out to eat!
This includes bringing-your-own (BYO) containers (when possible) and shopping at places that are trying hard to not packaging their food in single-use plastic.
Bring your own containers for leftovers
Ever stuck with the dilemma of wanting to take the rest of your meal home but not wanting to use a a single-use take-out container? Try bringing your own container for left overs! Department of Health has no regulations against this.
*COVID-19 Update: Double check with the restaurant to make sure it is OK for you to bring your to go container.
Bring your own Utensils
Bill 40 goes into effect in 2021 meaning all disposable utensils will be by request only and may cost an extra fee. Stay ahead of the game and start bringing your reusable utensils now!
*Pro Tip- Try leaving a reusable utensil set in each of your bags. You never know when your going to need a mid day snack or treat!
Bring your own cup
Check and see if your local coffee shop gives a discount for bringing your own cup. A quality reusable cup can keep your drink at the perfect temperature all day long - letting you enjoy it longer!
*COVID-19 Update: Restaurants are setting their own guidelines around COVID-19, so be sure to ask if it is OK to bring your own cup.
Take Out Tips
Bring Your Own Container- Take Out
Ordering food to go can create a large amount of waste. Try asking your favorite restaurants if you can get a to-go meal in your own reusable container. Department of Health codes can make this tricky right now. So, please respect the restaurant’s choice to say “sorry, we canʻt do that right now” and know what we are working hard to make sure BYO is safe and permitted.
*COVID-19 Update: Restaurants have different guidelines around personal to go containers for take out and COVID-19 may have altered their guidelines so be sure to ask if it is OK to do.
Food Delivery Request
When ordering food from a delivery service like Door Dash, Grub Hub, or Postmates be sure to write in the instructions that you do not utensils, napkins, straws, condiments, etc. Uber Eats is the first food delivery company to include utensils and straws by request only.
Where To Eat At?
Now that you have the strategies to reduce waste when dining, check out restaurants and resources that are working to make sustainable changes.
Ocean Friendly Restaurants
Surfrider Foundation recognizes restaurants that reduce plastic waste and implement ocean-friendly practices! Click here to see the guidelines each restaurant must followed to become certified.
Styrofoam Free Restaurants
Check out Surfrider Foundation’s list of restaurants that are foam free
