Local restaurant uses compostable materials

Starbucks is taking a step toward a more sustainable future. It’s ending the use of plastic straws from all stores by 2020.

One local restaurant has already been taking this no plastic initiative. HopCat has straws, napkins and to–go containers all made of compostable materials.

I talked to HopCat manager, Jessica Wilcox. She explained how important it is for not only the environment but it attracts those looking for employment.

"That’s actually a really big selling point for them that we are so sustainable, we have a lot of college aged kids and I feel that a lot of the youth is really into sustainability so they get really excited when they find out that its such a huge part of our company."

William Powers is a farmer and says this sustainable action has impacted him as a customer.

"Composting is essential, sourcing locally, sourcing craft beer is essential and vibrant for the local community," says Powers.

HopCat has been partnering with a local waste management service called Big Red Worms. I talked to Jeremiah Picard. This is his advice for other restaurants or businesses wanting to do the same.

"You do have to start with a plan and it’s best to implement that with other recycling at the same time because when you are training a new employee or training new staff on new techniques, it’s better to wrap it all into one thing."

Jeremiah also showed me what only some of their waste looked like today.

Jessica says being with a company that has been so sustainable from the very beginning will truly effect the future generations to come even if we might not see a change right away.

"While we might not immediately see the effects of sustainability, there very important to making sure that the earth lasts and that its a good place to live for our children and our children’s children."