Billy’s Stone Crab Hollywood Joins Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Restaurant Program

Billy’s Stone Crab Hollywood is the latest restaurant to join Surfrider Foundation’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants Program.BillysStoneCrabPhoto2 e1526587236545

In response to the proliferation of plastic pollution, Surfrider Broward Chapter has launched this program locally, and they already have three Hollywood restaurants on board. Researchers estimate that there are over 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic in the ocean, and that number continues to rise daily. The Ocean Friendly Restaurant Program works with local businesses to combat plastic pollution at the source- helping restaurants reduce single-use plastics, conserve resources, and raise public awareness.

“Clean oceans and sustainability helps make such a big difference in our city and sets the right tone for environmentally responsible daily practices,” said Elena Hershey, owner of Billy’s Stone Crab Hollywood. “Every little step in this direction is a huge contribution. We hope that more people and local businesses will see the need to jump on board with Ocean Friendly practices!”

“Elena is so enthusiastic about helping us with our mission of clean water and healthy beaches,” said Cat Uden, Chair of Surfrider Foundation Broward. “She even came to our beach cleanup this past Sunday to help pick up litter. We are thrilled to have Billy’s Stone Crab on board. Please support Ocean Friendly Restaurants and include their ocean minded business practices in your online restaurant reviews. We would like other restaurants to see that it matters!”

Restaurants participating in the OFR Program must abide by the following four criteria:

1. Discontinue offering expanded polystyrene (aka Styrofoam.)

2. Follow proper recycling practices.

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3. Only offer reusable tableware for onsite dining and only provide takeout utensils upon request.

4. Eradicate the use of plastic bags for takeout or to-go orders.

They must also choose to abide by at least three of the following criteria:

5. Provide straws only upon request.

6. Eliminate the sale of beverages in plastic bottles.

7. Offer discounts to customers with reusable cups, mugs, bags, etc.

8. Offer vegetarian/vegan food options regularly (All seafood must be a “Best Choice” or “Good Alternative” as defined by Seafood Watch.)

9. Use water conservation efforts such as low-flow faucets and toilets.

10. Use energy efficiency efforts such as LED lighting and Energy Star appliances.

For more information about the Ocean Friendly Restaurants program, go to: https://www.surfrider.org/programs/ocean-friendly-restaurants You can also contact Morgan Knowles at ofr@broward.surfrider.org.

About Surfrider Foundation:
The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves, and beaches through a powerful activist network. The Broward County Chapter works to ensure that local beaches are healthy, safe, and accessible. Learn more at: broward.surfrider.org

Author: Amanda Jones
Author: Amanda Jones

Amanda Jones specializes in social media marketing. She holds a Master's degree in Social Media Management from the University of Florida and a Social Media Professional Certificate from the University of Miami.

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