In this panel discussion, organized by the Center for Biological Diversity, we’ll share research and campaigns related to zero waste, a just transition, reuse and sustainable celebrations. Attendees will learn how individual behavior change relates to changing systems. We’ll share survey results that are informing future Center campaigns and we’ll highlight free resources that others can use to promote low-waste holidays and celebrations. We’ll end the panel discussion with an overview of the status of federal and state food codes as they relate to restaurant reuse.
The panel will consist of my colleagues Adoma Addo, Sarah Baillie and myself. Adoma will set the stage by sharing research we’ve conducted related to zero waste, capitalism, reuse and sustainable celebrations. Sarah will talk about the Center’s resources to support low-waste celebrations which includes the Wildlife-Friendly Wedding Guide, Simplify the Holidays and the SoKind alternative gift registry and wishlist platform. Finally, I will share our research into the ability at restaurants to use third party sanitizing and reuse organizations and/or allowing one to bring your own containers/mugs/cutlery for reuse as noted in the federal food code and associated state food codes.