Green Restaurant Association
Issuing Organization:
Green Restaurant Association (GRA)
Label purpose:
The Green Restaurant Association certifies restaurants that follow environmentally sustainable practices. It aims to create an ecologically sustainable restaurant industry by providing a convenient and cost-effective way for restaurants, manufacturers, distributors, and consumers to become more environmentally responsible.
Certification Criteria:
To earn certification, restaurants must accumulate a minimum number of points in categories such as water efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, sustainable food, energy, disposables, chemical and pollution reduction, and sustainable furnishings and building materials. Restaurants must meet transparency and improvement requirements, demonstrating continuous progress in their sustainability efforts.
Geographical Coverage:
To earn certification, restaurants must accumulate a minimum number of points in categories such as water efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, sustainable food, energy, disposables, chemical and pollution reduction, and sustainable furnishings and building materials. Restaurants must meet transparency and improvement requirements, demonstrating continuous progress in their sustainability efforts.
Target Industries/Segments:
The certification targets the restaurant industry, including full-service restaurants, quick-service restaurants, cafes, and catering services looking to improve their environmental performance.
Certification Process:
Restaurants seeking GRA certification undergo an assessment to evaluate their current practices and identify areas for improvement. They must submit documentation and evidence of sustainable practices across the GRA’s sustainability categories. After meeting the minimum points required for certification, the restaurant is awarded a GRA certification, which is tiered based on the level of achievement (Certified, 2 Star, 3 Star, or 4 Star).
Certificate Validity:
GRA certification requires annual renewal to ensure that restaurants continue to meet the certification standards and demonstrate ongoing commitment to sustainability. Restaurants are encouraged to achieve higher levels of certification by accruing additional points through further sustainability initiatives.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
For consumers, GRA certification provides assurance that a restaurant operates under environmentally sustainable practices, helping them make informed dining choices. For restaurants, certification not only helps reduce environmental impact but also can lead to cost savings, improved marketability, and a positive brand image as an environmentally responsible business.
Sustainability Impact:
The Green Restaurant Association promotes sustainable development in the restaurant industry by encouraging practices that reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize environmental impact. By fostering a culture of sustainability, GRA certification contributes to the overall goal of reducing the restaurant industry’s carbon footprint and promoting a healthier planet.
EN 
SL 
DE 
IT