Staying true to one’s sustainable habits can be challenging outside the household, and restaurant culture can be one of the most problematic environments. To help motivated restaurant owners participate in a sustainable green transition, Surfrider Europe is bringing Ocean Friendly Restaurants, a program first launched by Surfrider US, to Europe’s food service industry.
Guidelines for protecting the Ocean
Ocean Friendly Restaurants is a program that defines an eco-responsible set of guidelines to which any European restaurant owner can subscribe. To be certified through the program, an establishment must meet 13 specific requirements, 8 of which are mandatory for all participants and 5 additional can be chosen from a list of 14 options. This format aims to make participation in the program more accessible and inviting to all restaurant owners who are eager to adapt to a more ocean friendly business model. Examples of criteria include using local, seasonal and organic ingredients, offering at least one vegetarian option, and withdrawing any menu items that incorporate endangered species. Participants of Ocean Friendly Restaurants will benefit from the support of local Surfrider Europe chapters who can help them identify and implement further improvements.
A committed and engaging project
In addition to receiving guidance from the Surfrider network, certified Ocean Friendly Restaurants become part of an international community of businesses working to reduce their impact, protect the Ocean, and encourage an ecological transition through their services. Ocean Friendly Restaurant certification offers strong visibility and legitimacy to committed businesses and a competitive edge to reach new consumers searching for restaurants in line with their values. Looking to support a business that is healthy for you and the Ocean? Just find an Ocean Friendly Restaurant!
A promising start
As a pilot phase, 18 restaurants have already committed themselves to the program with support from their local Surfrider Europe chapters. Volunteers play a vital role by introducing the program to their communities and driving participation. Ocean Friendly Restaurants already active in the pilot phase are proving that by working together, citizens supporting businesses, a green transition in Europe’s food service industry is possible and effective.
By adapting the original program launched by Surfrider US for a more European context in the respect of Member states specificities, Surfrider Europe engages itself in the sustainable transition of the food service industry and calls for the pursuit of this global effort towards Ocean protection. To discover the project in detail, or to take part in the adventure Ocean Friendly Restaurants, follow the link.
