Resources

Below are helpful resources for a better understanding of how to be sustainable.

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Produce and plant-based options

• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Federal government department that provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition and related issues based on public policy, the best available science and effective management.
  • USDA Organic - About organic certification, technical training and financial resources and data and research. 
  • DC Metro Area Food Portal - Local farms, farmers' markets and food hubs 

Restaurants

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - U.S. government agency that protects human health and the environment.
  • Identifying Greener Food Service and Food Service Ware 
• Green Restaurant Association (GRA) - An industry group committed to sustainability that encourages restaurants to green their operations using transparent, science-based certification standards.
  • Sign up to become certified by the GRA
  • Find Certified Green products for your dining, catering or food and beverage business
  • Find Certified Green Restaurants in "Washington"

Hotels

• EPA - U.S. government agency that protects human health and the environment.
  • Green Hotels - Resources, Ecolabels and Standards
  • Identifying Greener Food Service and Food Service Ware 

Additional resources

• Nourish Now - Specializes in food recovery and provides donations from grocers, caterers, restaurants, bakeries and other food donors for the benefit of children, families, and the elderly, shelters, food pantries and more.
• DC Food Recovery Week - Annually, the DC government leads this initiative to push to reduce the 40 percent of food that’s wasted in the United States.
• DC Food Policy Council (FPC) - A coalition of public and government food leaders appointed by Mayor Bowser to create a just, healthy, equitable and sustainable food system for all.
• Zero Waste DC Plan - Join DC's ambitious Zero Waste goal for the city, meant to divert 80 percent of solid waste away from landfill and waste-to-energy by 2032
• ReuseDC - DC government-led initiative to know where to repair, donate and shop for second-hand household items. Also supports food recovery and item exchanges with neighbors.
• Zero Food Waste Coalition - Brings consumers, businesses, and government together to build  momentum and alignment on food waste policy. State policy toolkit

Learn more about Destination DC's Sustainability District