Waste and Purchasing
The best way to minimize waste is to not create it in the first place. In Princeton, there are lots of options for businesses to divert waste from the landfill and to reduce our consumption. Your business decisions have a big impact!
Food Waste
Up to 40% of food produced in the United States is not eaten, leading to billions of dollars lost, resources wasted, and more greenhouse gas emissions. Approximately 25% of what goes to our landfill is food waste. Restaurants, in particular, are well-poised to collect food waste in the kitchen. Offer recycling services — patrons will notice and appreciate it.
Clear and consistent signage is vital. Ensure your recycling and/or compost bins are kept with a properly labeled can to prevent contamination and make it clear and simple for those throwing things away.
Commercial food waste haulers that service Princeton include:
Leftover food that is still fit to be eaten can be donated through local organizations like Share My Meals, which helps redirect surplus food to hungry people in our community or sold to customers through apps like Too Good to Go.
Keeping food out of your trash cans can help reduce your solid-waste hauling costs.
Green Purchasing Policy
Does your business have a Green Purchasing Policy? Purchasing sustainably both helps the environment and saves you money. Green purchasing, or environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP), refers to “the coordinated purchasing of goods and services to minimize impacts on human health and the natural environment.”
Review the NJDEP’s Green Purchasing Guide for more information.
Packaging and Serviceware
Why pay for disposable cutlery, straws, and plates? Save money by switching to washable. Opt for bulk condiment and coffee station items.
Consider offering utensils in to-go orders by request only. Most to-go orders are eaten in a patron’s home where they probably already have silverware.
Encourage BYO
Offer water refill stations and space for employees to rinse their bottles or mugs. This eliminates the need for plastic water bottles and disposable coffee cups. If you’re a food establishment, implement incentive programs for BYO mug, bottle or takeout container.
Join One of These Programs Today
Be sure to get credit (and free promotion) for your actions. Join one of the following certification programs, which provide a helpful roadmap and resources to achieve greater sustainability goals.
NJ Sustainable Business Registry
Customized for businesses, non-profits, and higher education institutions
