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Detroit restaurants will participate in an “Eat for Impact” initiative during the month of September by adding at least two pro-climate dishes to their menus to help reduce the city’s environmental footprint. So far, seven restaurants have signed up, with more expected.
After September, a comprehensive climate report will be published highlighting the greenhouse gas savings from all participants. Restaurants currently signed up include Yum Village, IVY Kitchen + Cocktails, Parc, Detroit People's Food Co-op, Brooklyn Street Local, Avalon Café & Bakery, and M Cantina.
The program is being led by local community leaders with the support of Planted Society, an organization that describes itself as helping people build a more sustainable food system worldwide.
“The Eat for Impact initiative is just for the month of September so that we can accurately measure the environmental impact the collective dishes sold will have,” Jessie Lingenfelter, communications director for Planted Society, told Deadline Detroit. “However, restaurants will often keep some of the most popular items on their menus after the month wraps up — so we look forward to seeing what those will be.”
Kristin Anderson, executive chef at Avalon Café & Bakery, one of the participating restaurants, said in a statement:
“Conscious consumption can nourish communities. Every bite is a choice, and with Eat for Impact, we are turning meals into movements.”
One of the organizers, Nicole Bernabela, said:
“I joined Detroit’s Eat for Impact campaign because of my deep love for this city and my commitment to making it a better place. Supporting initiatives that drive positive change, especially in our local restaurant scene, is an opportunity to promote environmentally impactful practices.
“I believe that even small changes in our daily lives can contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet. As a passionate foodie, I’m honored to collaborate with such incredible local restaurants to create meaningful change.”
According to the Eat for Impact website, Detroit is one of 11 cities in the U.S. and around the world participating in the program this year. Other cities include Los Angeles, Cambridge, Mass., Austin, Texas, and Abuja, Nigeria.
A press release on the program notes that data shows animal agriculture increases greenhouse gas emissions, is the leading cause of deforestation, and strains the world’s natural resources.
Interested restaurants can click here.
