When going green in the commercial kitchen or restaurant, it is essential to have guidelines to direct your transitions to a new and improved establishment. You may recognize the seals and logos below. These represent the organizations and certifications that provide the standards for those looking to make the necessary changes to go green.
Government-Backed Certifications
ENERGY STAR®Partnered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, ENERGY STAR is a program designed to identify and advocate energy-efficient products and practices. ENERGY STAR distinguishes environmentally friendly products based on their specifications regarding energy consumption and water usage. ENERGY STAR also delivers technical information and educational resources to consumers looking for energy-efficient solutions in their homes or businesses. »
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EcoLogoOriginating in Canada, EcoLogo is a certification program for environmentally friendly products, goods and services. Predominantly operating in Canada but vying for recognition in the United States, EcoLogo provides help identifying, buying and selling green products. This program’s certification process involves assessing and comparing different products with evaluations and audits. »
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Non-Profit Organizations
U.S. Green Building Council, LEED Green Building Rating SystemThe Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ sets the national standard for the certification of high performance green buildings. With government-backed statistics and industry-specific information, LEED provides owners and operators the resources to design, construct and operate environmentally responsible, healthy and cost-effective places to live and work. A LEED certification is available for buildings compliant with all aspects of the program.
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Green SealGreen Seal is a non-profit organization promoting the manufacture, purchase and use of ecologically responsible products and services. Green Seal provides a scientifically-based certification process, evaluating the product from its production, through its use, and ending with its disposal. The application processes involve recording data, testing equipment, providing product samples, and finally an audit of the facility. »
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Totally Chlorine Free
The Totally Chlorine Free certification seal identifies virgin fiber paper that has been produced completely free of chlorine compounds. Toxic chlorine ingredients are typically used for bleaching. The certification comes from the Chlorine Free Products Association, dedicated to sustainable manufacturing. Comprehensive inspections and strict audits are performed on paper manufacturing processes in order to validate the production of truly chlorine-free products.
Green Restaurant Association
The Green Restaurant Association (GRA) is a non-profit organization focused on research, education and marketing for communities and establishments looking to go green. The GRA personally advises restaurants with economic analyses, educational material and community coordination, all of which help direct restaurants toward a more sustainable environment.
Additional Certifications and Symbols
Certified Green Commercial KitchenTMEstablished by FoodServiceWarehouse.com, the Certified Green Commercial Kitchen™ program assists commercial kitchens in taking steps toward becoming more sustainable. This comprehensive program covers five keys areas: energy conservation, water conservation, waste reduction, green cleaning, and education. FoodServiceWarehouse.com can guide any establishment through the entire process, including the unique ability to provide expert guidance in the selection of eco-friendly equipment and supplies. FoodServiceWarehouse.com will help your operation select the best products in order to slash energy costs, increase customer satisfaction and help the environment, all at no charge. »
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EnerlogicTM
The Enodis Enerlogic™ Program recognizes energy savings relative to the consumption of water, electricity and gas, and identifies the most energy-efficient Enodis commercial kitchen equipment for the environmentally minded consumer. Products qualify for the Enerlogic stamp of approval when they meet requirements set forth by outside organizations like ENERGY STAR, CEE, the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) and the LEED Green Building Rating System.
RecyclingThe recycling symbol has gained world-wide recognition as concerned consumers have become more committed to environmental conservation. The symbol represents a triad of sustainable activities: reduce, reuse and recycle. Commonly seen on paper, plastic and glass containers, the recycling symbol cues people to recycle rather than simply throw things away.
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FoodServiceWarehouse.com was founded in June 2006 to provide businesses with a wide selection of high-quality foodservice equipment and supplies from the world's best-known brands. They have since become the
restaurant supply leader, empowering customers to make their own businesses more successful. The site offers a wide range of articles, research materials and products for the conscientious foodservice operator.