Did you know that switching from single-use to reusable items will decrease trash hauling fees and long-term purchasing costs? Not only would you be saving the environment, but your wallet too! Not convinced yet? Here is a resource with reusable alternative suggestions, a cost-benefit analysis template, and success stories from businesses that have embraced sustainability in their cities to create a global impact.

As consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the negative effects polystyrene (#6, including Styrofoam) containers have on human and environmental health, the demand for sustainable alternatives rises. We encourage you to incentivize customers to bring reusable containers for takeout but understand that other options may be the best for you. Curious to know more? Click here to learn about sustainable alternatives.

Did you know that more than 22 million pounds of plastic pollution end up in the Great Lakes each year? We understand that there are many hurdles to recycling, but your restaurant can lead the way in making change. Help us spread awareness and promote proper recycling practices using the City of Milwaukee’s recycling guidelines or this infographic.

In 2020, the City of Milwaukee passed an ordinance that prohibits food and beverage establishments from providing plastic straws, unless specifically requested by the customer. If offering straws, we encourage you to choose paper or compostable options over plastic. Note: Though businesses should not be offering plastic straws, it is important to keep them on hand for community members with disabilities. Want staff members and customers to know? Here is a flier outlining Straw Law expectations.

Plastic bags, in or outside of landfills, take more than 1,000 years to decompose and leach toxic chemicals and microplastics into our environment. Using paper or reusable bags for to-go orders will improve the health of Milwaukee, its citizens, and the Earth as a whole. Switching to reusable bags offers the opportunity to increase brand awareness and associate your restaurant with an Earth-conscious perspective, leading to positive public perception and attracting more customers.

1. Eliminate beverages sold in plastic bottles.

2. Install and maintain a cigarette butt receptacle. Visit Hold onto your Butt MKE for additional information and resources.

3. Donate leftover food to those struggling with food insecurity at the end of each business day to reduce food waste.

4. Share information about Plastic-Free MKE and the Lake Friendly Business Program with customers and other businesses through conversation or signage. Click here to request resources.