The restaurant industry is one accustomed to wastefulness. Styrofoam, plastic, and immense amounts of trash have been part of their operating systems for years. But this is the 21st century, and people are beginning to realize that its time to start taking care of our planet. So, slowly but surely, the industry with a big carbon footprint is making a turn for the greener.

There are many ways to go green. Cutting down on water and electricity use is very simple and doesn’t cost a thing. In fact, it saves money. Another thing that is fairly simple is to separate the recycling into three different categories: cardboard, glass, and cans. It is important to separate them because they are recycled differently and some recycling centers don’t separate them properly. Another way to go green isn’t just about the restaurants though, it’s also about the customers. Styrofoam to-go containers have ruled the industry and polluted our planet for as long as most of us can remember, but there are now other options!

Many restaurants have chosen to go green with their take-out containers; replacing plastic and Styrofoam with more eco-friendly options. Companies like PrimeWare are helping restaurants go green with their eco-friendly and compostable disposable tableware. PrimeWare’s line includes plates, platters, hinged-lid containers, bowls, and trays all made from natural molded fiber, which is a byproduct of the refining process. Their line of cup carriers is made from 100% recycled materials.

The United Sates has nearly one million restaurants. The average restaurant produces 100,000 pounds of trash per year. Even if the only change restaurants made was to go from Styrofoam to recyclable and compostable take-out containers, it would make a huge difference. Going green is now easier than ever, and there is no time like the present. Happy greening!

Find more information about restaurants and recycling.