A small but growing number of restaurants are adopting reusable take-out containers to reduce plastic waste, with programs like Recirclable leading the charge.
Meg Wilcox reports for Civil Eats.
In short:
- Johnny’s Luncheonette in Massachusetts offers reusable take-out containers through the Recirclable program, which customers return to participating restaurants.
- Despite higher upfront costs, reusable containers can save money over time and reduce environmental impact, according to reuse advocates.
- Nationwide, startups and nonprofits are supporting reuse infrastructure, with programs emerging in major cities and institutions.
Key quote:
"Reuse is just smart. It’s smart resource-wise. It’s smart cost-wise."
— Kay Masterson, owner of Johnny’s Luncheonette.
Why this matters:
The concept is simple yet revolutionary: instead of single-use plastic containers that end up in landfills or, worse, our oceans, patrons receive their meals in sturdy, reusable containers. These are then returned, sanitized, and reused, creating a sustainable loop that drastically cuts down on waste.
For the environmentally aware consumer, this is a win-win. They get to enjoy their favorite meals without the guilt of contributing to plastic pollution. For restaurants, it's an opportunity to align with green practices and appeal to a growing demographic that prioritizes sustainability.
