This project plans to implement a multi-location program to find out the feasibility of a food vendor using reusable to-go containers (foodware) and silverware in order to reduce to-go container waste. This project will model off success of Bevier Café’s in-house “Choose to Reuse” green container program.The initial trial will be free but next phase of program would include rolling out a paid opt-in program that would help to self-fund the program’s long-term continuity (cover the cost of buying replacement containers) where partnering locations will promote and offer green containers to customers as an alternative option. Important data such as the number of food orders made/diverted containers, customers, washes, costs of utility, and potential amount saved by food vendors if switching from disposable containers will be collected and reviewed to determine feasibility to scale up at other locations (i.e. cities of Champaign and Urbana through external funding).

Initial funding will primarily help to: order reusable plastic foodware containers to support use at multiple locations, develop marketing materials to educate and promote the program, and support costs of setting up an organized system at each location as needed (ex. bins to facilitate collection, storage, etc.).

Major milestones include: getting buy-in from restaurants, cafés, or food trucks to join the program, seeing adoption by customers, diverting waste from landfill through the use of reusable containers, receiving positive feedback from both businesses and customers, as well as criticisms, and generating participation interest from other venues not included in the initial trial