No single-use plastic is present anywhere on the table. This includes cups, straws, stirrers, and condiments. Use this guide to start your switch to reusable tableware!

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, a type of plastic typically used for inexpensive, disposable products (such as cups, plates, clamshells, etc.), is often found in the majority of cleanups. EPS foam impacts animal life, ecosystems, rivers, and lakes.

Ensure that all recyclables are recycled. Refer to the City of Milwaukee’s recycling guidelines. Note that the Department for Natural Resources has banned certain items, including plastics #1 and 2, from landfills statewide.

This results in a huge reduction, breaks habits, and makes use of straws/stirrers unfashionable. (Note: please keep some straws available for the disabled community upon request).

Bagasse (a tree-free paper product made from plant fiber) is the ideal option because it needs to be composted, but can be at home. Plant-based plastic (Polylactic acid, or PLA) is the next best option (requires hot composting). Check whether an item is certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institute.

Only give compostable or paper cutlery and condiments on request. The majority of materials must be compostable, or if using plastic, they must be recyclable. This guide helps consider environmentally friendly disposable options.

Encourage patrons to bring their own to-go containers for leftovers.

Americans use 100 billion plastic bags a year and only 1% are returned for recycling. Over 100,000 marine animals are killed by bags each year! Bags should only be given on request and should be made from paper or another renewable resource. (Example)

1. Compost all back of house waste

2. Compost all front of house waste

3. No beverages sold in plastic bottles

4. Provide and display a discount for customers bringing their own container 

5. Install and maintain a cigarette butt receptacle outside of your business. You can choose to DIY using a tin bin, some sand, and signage, or you can install a Hold On To Your Butt MKE cigarette butt receptacle.

Contact Charlie Leonard at cleonard@communityadvocates.net to get a branded ‘Hold On To Your Butts MKE’ receptacle and learn more about the campaign!