Florida Tech’s Panther Dining Hall (PDH) is now a certified Ocean Friendly Restaurant, so designated by the Surfrider Foundation’s Space Coast chapter. More than 560 restaurants worldwide share the distinction, and PDH currently joins Cocoa Beach’s Tiny Turtle as the only two certified restaurants in Brevard County.
The Surfrider Foundation’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants program recognizes establishments that are committed to reducing wasteful single-use plastics while creating a framework to promote sustainable choices for the ocean, according to the organization.
Campus Dining Director Evan Olsen said Florida Tech has long championed sustainability campus-wide, so it made sense that the university’s primary dining venue reflects that mindset, as well.
“Partnering with the Surfrider Foundation to support local sustainability efforts is so important,” Olsen said. “Campus Dining is proud to be recognized as a leader in our county and will continue to keep sustainability efforts at the forefront of our mission.”
Restaurants that qualify must meet specific criteria, such as following proper recycling practices; not using expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam; only offering reusable tableware for onsite dining and only providing disposable utensils for takeout food upon request; not offering plastic bags for takeout or to-go orders; and only providing straws upon request.
PDH was also recognized for additional choices, such as offering vegetarian and vegan food options; choosing “Best Choice” or “Good Alternative” seafood as defined by Seafood Watch; implementing energy efficiency efforts; not selling concessions or pre-packaged food items in plastic packaging; and not offering single-use plastic or bio-based plastic containers for takeout or to-go orders.
“The work the dining team is doing is an excellent and exemplary example of teamwork and unity towards a sustainable future and services on campus,” said Kathy Villegas Murillas, co-chair of the University Sustainability Council.
The Surfrider Foundation is a national non-profit dedicated protection and enjoyment of the ocean, waves and beaches through its activist network. The foundation says it is working to increase awareness, reduce plastic pollution and help drive social, behavioral and environmental change.
