Pollution Prevention Grant Aids NYC Restaurants
"This project will help restaurant owners reduce food waste and reduce the use of pesticides and chemicals, while also conserving energy and water. By taking steps to eliminate waste at the source, New York City restaurants can become models for sustainable practices," said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck.
EPA announced Nov. 24 that it has awarded $69,500 to the New York State Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to help New York City restaurants support sustainable practices and prepare for the impacts of climate change, including storm surges. "Pollution prevention is some of the most important work being done to protect the environment. This project will help restaurant owners reduce food waste and reduce the use of pesticides and chemicals, while also conserving energy and water. By taking steps to eliminate waste at the source, New York City restaurants can become models for sustainable practices," said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck.
This grant adds to previous EPA-funded grants awarded to educate restaurant owners about preventing pollution. The Restaurant Association Educational Foundation will work with NYC restaurants to reduce their water and energy consumption; cut back on their use of hazardous materials for cleaning or pest control; and reduce the risk of releasing hazardous chemicals during a storm or catastrophic event.
EPA said the project's focus is on restaurants in communities highly susceptible to flooding, including Red Hook, Brooklyn, and The Rockaways. In addition to training New York City restaurant personnel, the foundation will share information learned with restaurants in Puerto Rico through its partnership with the Puerto Rican Restaurant Association.