The Michelin Guide is a respected international guide rating restaurants, hotels and other forms of hospitality. Every year the Michelin Guide releases its list of restaurants that have earned one, two or three stars.
The stars are awarded based on criteria such as cuisine, quality of ingredients, level of creativity, atmosphere and service. There is also a fourth type of star – the Green Star – which has been in place since 2005.
The Green Star is not your everyday award – it symbolizes sustainability and environmental consciousness. In order to be eligible for a Green Star award, restaurants must adhere to strict standards set by the Michelin Guide. These standards focus on four main criteria:
- Water Optimization: This criteria involves minimizing water waste and using energy efficient appliances. Restaurants must also use water saving systems such as low-flow toilets and showerheads.
- Energy Efficiency: This criteria involves using renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines when possible. Restaurants should also reduce their carbon footprint by using LED lighting and energy efficient appliances.
- Sustainable Food Sources: Restaurants must source food from sustainable farms that use eco-friendly practices whenever possible.
- Waste Management: Restaurants must have an effective waste management system in place to reduce waste and recycle when possible.
Achieving a Green Star is no easy task – it takes dedication and commitment to sustainability principles.
Those who are able to meet these high standards can proudly display this prestigious award in their establishment.
Conclusion:
A Green Michelin Star is the highest honor a restaurant can receive when it comes to environmental consciousness. It symbolizes dedication to sustainable practices such as water optimization, energy efficiency, sourcing from sustainable farms, and effective waste management. Earning a Green Star requires significant effort but for those who do it comes with great pride.