Neighbors Allied for Good Growth (NAG) is thrilled to announce our new initiative, the Reduce Reuse Recycle Greenpoint project. In collaboration with Brooklyn Allied Bars and Restaurants (BABAR) and Common Ground Compost (CGC), we aim to enhance sustainability practices among local Greenpoint restaurants. This project focuses on waste management, waste audits, and a pilot program for sustainable materials.
Project Goals and Impact
Our primary goal is to significantly reduce the amount of restaurant waste sent to landfills by redirecting it to recycling and composting. If the entire neighborhood participates, we can divert approximately 452,600 pounds of waste annually from Greenpoint restaurants and bars.
Key Components of the Project
- Sustainability Best Practices:
- We have conducted interviews with 15 Greenpoint-based establishments to gather their insights on sustainability.
- This information will be compiled into a brochure and shared through workshops, covering topics such as food donation options, energy, water, and waste-saving tips.
- Reusable Container Pilot Program:
- We are launching a pilot program for reusable takeout containers. CGC is handling logistics, and we are identifying suitable restaurants in Greenpoint.
- Inspired by initiatives like Go Box in Portland and San Francisco, we hope to expand this program beyond the pilot phase.
- Waste Audits:
- CGC has conducted waste audits at six restaurants to analyze their waste streams, categorizing it into trash, paper, cardboard, compost, and glass/metal/plastic.
- The audit results will help us implement more effective waste management practices and identify a hauler to collect compost at a group-discounted rate.
Challenges and Next Steps
New York City lags in commercial waste management. Restaurants must separate and label waste, but hauler regulations are not stringent. Many establishments are concerned about waste handling after curbside collection.
Our next steps include:
- Finalizing and distributing the educational brochure.
- Implementing the reusable container program.
- Partnering with a hauler for compost collection from the audited restaurants.
Get Involved
We invite the Greenpoint community to join us in this groundbreaking effort. Attend our workshops, volunteer with NAG, and support our initiatives to make Greenpoint a leader in restaurant industry sustainability.
Together, we can create a cleaner, greener Greenpoint.