V.I. Clean Coasts is announcing a territorywide expansion of its efforts to combat the persistent pollution caused by single-use plastics and polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam.
These materials, which choke landfills, litter coastlines, and break down into harmful microplastics, have long been a target for environmental groups. Now, VICC is ramping up its Eco-Certification program specifically for the food and beverage industry, aiming to turn the tide on waste.
The program provides tangible support that includes personalized, hands-on guidance from the VICC team to navigate the switch to reusable and sustainable alternatives. “The biggest challenges we’ve encountered for businesses that want to be more sustainable are that they aren’t sure where to start or don’t have the funds to make eco-friendly changes. To address these challenges, our team provides customized guidance to implement waste-reduction methods that can easily be incorporated into daily operations. We also offer the opportunity to apply for funding to cover possible start-up costs”, says Sienna Gray, V.I. Clean Coasts Director.
Eligible businesses across the USVI can apply for up to $3,500 to cover the costs of transitioning away from single-use items and other harmful pollutants. The money can be used for a variety of eco-friendly upgrades, including bottle filling stations, reusable dish ware and dishwashers, or other equipment that specifically cuts down on waste.
Once a business has successfully eliminated Styrofoam and reduced reliance on other single-use items, it can apply for official VICC Eco-Certification. Certified businesses receive public recognition, including a feature on the VICC website, promotional newsletters, acknowledgement on social media, and a physical certification to display.
To make it easier for both residents and visitors to support these efforts, VICC has launched a new, restaurant-specific webpage. A key feature of the site is a live, interactive map that pinpoints all the VICC Eco-Certified food establishments across the Virgin Islands. Users can easily locate the restaurants that have ditched Styrofoam and are adopting other eco-conscious practices, with each listing providing a direct link to the business on Google Maps.
The outreach isn’t only stopping online; throughout the year VICC coordinators will be present at community events, visiting businesses directly, and hosting informational tables where people can see alternative products first-hand and learn more about the program. This push will be amplified in the coming months with educational campaigns set to launch on radio and television across the territory.
Businesses interested in joining the effort to take the plunge can find more information and apply for funding at the VICC website. Individuals are also encouraged to participate by choosing to dine at Eco-Certified restaurants, spreading the word about the dangers of Styrofoam and plastic, and reducing their own personal waste.
