Ten restaurants have been designated as “Green Restaurants In The Green Mountain State” in the Vermont Business Environmental Partnership (VBEP). Started in 2010, state program VBEP recognizes businesses for their environmental stewardship. Participating businesses go beyond following environmental regulations to also conserve resources and implement environmental best management practices.
Green businesses attract customers who seek environmentally responsible businesses and save thousands of dollars a year. VBEP representatives offer plenty of guidance.
Energy conservation measures include lighting upgrades, Energy Star appliances and refrigeration equipment, heating system upgrades, and improved weatherization. Water conservation methods include low flow dishwashers, sinks, and toilets. Resource conservation is achieved through bio-based and paper to-go containers, buying locally sourced products, maximizing reuse and recycling, collection of food waste for composting, adding solar energy and solar hot water systems, and the use of green cleaners and post-consumer recycled paper products.
Current Green Restaurants include: Michael’s on the Hill, Waterbury; The Wayside Bakery & Restaurant, Berlin; Ye Olde Tavern, Manchester; Mio Bistro, Dorset; Cloudland Farm, North Pomfret; Restaurant Verterra & Lucy’s Tavern at The Inn at Weathersfield, Perkinsville; Rira’s Irish Pub, Burlington; The Stone Hearth Inn and Tavern, Chester; Works Bakery and Café, Brattleboro and Manchester; and The Tamarack Grill at Burke Mountain, East Burke.
Participating businesses are listed on the VBEP web site and proudly display the Green Restaurant in the Green Mountain State emblem at their businesses.
Visit: www.vbep.org
Source: Agency of Natural Resources
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