PGF-Certified restaurants will meet six criteria:
1. Sustainable Products
For all disposable products, PGF restaurants are to use products that are one of the following: compostable, biodegradable, recyclable, or made from recycled content.
2. Recycling
To prevent materials from ending up in the trash (and eventually a landfill), PGF restaurants are required to recycle all items that are recognized as recyclable by PGF.
3. Kitchen Composting
PGF will help restaurants develop a composting process to collect pre-consumed fruit, vegetable, coffee grounds, and eggshell scraps and other compostable waste.
4. Non-toxic Cleaning Products
Toxic cleaning products release harmful chemicals like phosphates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the sewers, eventually making their way into rivers, oceans, rainwater, and eventually back into our drinking water. These chemicals pollute and harm any wildlife they come in contact with—including us.
5. Reduced Energy & Water Consumption
After completing an energy audit, PGF will help restaurants take steps to reduce and conserve vital energy and water. MLGW offers web-based tools designed to help you identify energy waste and find ways to save.
6. Pollution Prevention
Properly maintained grease traps and kitchen hoods prevent overflows and emissions to sewer and storm drain systems. Restaurants should ensure kitchen, front of house, and outside areas are clean and free of debris at all times including cigarette butts and other outside trash.