Allow takeout/to-go orders in customer-provided reusable Recognizing Responsible Foodware and Waste reduction efforts
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Businesses can receive an “Earth-Friendly” window decal by completing the following steps:
WASTE REDUCTION REQUIREMENTS
- Use only reusable foodware* for onsite dining. (*Foodware includes dinnerware, drinkware, silverware, containers, and other items as defined in the proposed Foodware/Waste Reduction Ordinance.)
- Provide disposable foodware by request only for takeout/to-go orders.
- Use only natural fiber-based compostable and BPI-certified (or other third-party certified) disposable foodware, free of “forever chemicals,” for takeout/to-go orders.
- Apply a charge for natural fiber-based certified compostable
disposable foodware items. This might be 25¢ for disposable items
or bags, 3% of the total bill, or some other amount, at the
restaurant’s discretion. This charge must be noted as a line item
on the receipt.
For example: We include a 3% charge for non-reusable foodware
and apply a discount for customer-provided foodware.
Please include the sentence: These requirements are based on the
Reusable Foodware and Waste Reduction ordinance drafted by
Napa Climate NOW!
We recommend that this policy be added as a note on the menu,
displayed on a sign at the cash register, or posted on the wall. Our
goal is to educate the public as much as it is to cut down on waste. - Allow takeout/to-go orders in customer-provided reusable foodware and apply a discount when customers provide their
own. (For example: 25¢ for reusable items and takeout bags,
or 3% of the total bill.) This discount must be noted as a line
item on the receipt and may also be posted on a sign at the
cash register or on the wall. Again, please include the
sentence: These requirements are based on the Reusable
Foodware and Waste Reduction ordinance drafted by Napa
Climate NOW!
In addition, you might add to your menu — or post on the wall – a
statement of appreciation. For example:
Thank you for helping us promote practices that conserve
resources, reduce waste and litter, and benefit the environment,
now and for future generations. - Follow “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rot (compost)” practices throughout establishment before sending any waste material to landfill; include proper, standardized labels on receptacles.
- Use only paper bags or customer-provided bags for takeout/to-go orders.
ADDITIONAL STEPS (Choose at least 3)
- Prioritize working with local vendors, when possible.
- Reduce water consumption in front and back of the house. (i.e. Install low-flow faucets and toilets and auto-off faucet; Offer drinking water by request only; Don’t hose down outside to reduce urban runoff.)
- Use non-toxic cleaners.
- Conserve energy. (i.e. Upgrade lighting and equipment to save energy; switch to LED lighting; install solar panels; use Energy Star-certified appliances.)
- Follow other climate-oriented business practices. (i.e. Offer transit vouchers to employees and install bike racks to encourage alternative transport; Reduce food waste by donating excess to food recovery organizations; Make the switch from fossil fuel by choosing the “deep green” renewable energy option offered by MCE through PG&E.)
- Sell only beverages that are not in plastic bottles.
- Sell/rent for deposit reusables on site. (i.e. foodware containers, travel mugs/cups, bags.)

Decals now available for eateries and drinkeries in Napa County meeting our program requirements.
Press Release
‘Earth-Friendly’ Decals Promote Climate-minded Businesses
A New Designation for Drinking and Dining with Greater Peace of Mind
November 1, 2022 – From fancy and famous to “grab and go” and delivery, Napa Valley offers a broad range of options for enjoying food and drink, and as a world-renowned food and wine destination has become synonymous with setting a higher standard. Napa Climate NOW!’s Waste Reduction Issue Team thinks it’s high time for that standard to be extended to the plate itself and has launched an eye-catching “Earth-Friendly” badge of honor to recognize and promote establishments that commit to more sustainable foodware practices.
For more information and/or to request your decal fill out the Napa Climate NOW! Waste Reduction Issue Team request form below.