NL Restaurants Turn Back the Tide on Climate Change

A partnership between the Restaurant Association of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Provincial Government will help Turn Back the Tide on climate change by promoting green practices in the industry and profiling restaurants demonstrating excellence in sustainability.

“The restaurant sector is an important part of our tourism industry and local restaurants have shown leadership by greening their businesses and lowering the carbon footprint of their operations,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for the Office of Climate Change, Energy Efficiency and Emissions Trading. “Using local and seasonal food sources, conserving water, improving energy efficiency and minimizing waste make good business sense, and are key ways to tackle climate change.”

The partnership and trivia contest coincides with Tourism Awareness Week, which runs June 10 -16.

“Culinary tourism is an important part of the product we have to offer in Newfoundland and Labrador, and restaurateurs have responded to the growing demand consumers have for sustainable practices and products,” said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “Going green is a way to differentiate your business from others in a competitive market, and I commend the efforts of our local restaurant industry.”

Five restaurants are showcased at Facebook/TurnBackTheTide through a Green Restaurants Trivia Contest where entrants have their knowledge tested on sustainable practices. The profiled restaurants are: St. John’s-based Bacalao, Bridie Molloy’s/Celtic Hearth, and Chinched Bistro as well as Black Spruce Restaurant in Norris Point and Fishers’ Loft in Port Rexton.

“The Restaurant Association of Newfoundland and Labrador is working with our membership to raise awareness on the benefits of going green,” said Nancy Brace, Executive Director, Restaurant Association of Newfoundland and Labrador. “Taking sustainable action in the restaurant industry has environmental benefits, but it also has economic benefits for businesses that are operating within small margins.”

For more information, visit www.turnbackthetide.ca/whatsnew

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2013 06 11                               2:50 p.m.