Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is not only famous for its historical monuments and magnificent architecture but also a city moving towards sustainable development and green tourism. Restaurants, hotels, and catering companies here are striving to minimize their environmental impact, offering visitors eco-friendly and responsible travel experiences.
Sustainable Restaurants and Dining
“Farm-to-table” is no longer just a trend but has become a standard at many restaurants in Washington D.C. Local restaurants are increasingly focusing on sustainability, using organic produce and local agriculture. The Agricultural Restaurant Group, with restaurants like Founding Farmers, Farmers Fishers Bakers, and Farmers & Distillers, are prime examples. These restaurants are all LEED certified and have recycling and composting programs, helping to reduce 90% of waste sent to landfills.
Brunch at Farmers & Distillers in Chinatown – A top spot for brunch in Washington, DC
Farmers & Distillers, a pioneer in the sustainable dining movement, is renowned for its dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while also committed to minimizing negative environmental impacts.
Additionally, Bresca is partnering with ZeroFoodprint in an effort to combat climate change by neutralizing carbon emissions. Right Proper Brewing Company uses solar energy to power its entire brewing operation and provides spent grain to local farmers for free.
Green and Energy-Efficient Hotels
Many hotels in Washington D.C. are also actively implementing environmental protection measures. The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown is an example of reusing a former industrial building. Conrad Washington DC is LEED Gold certified with solar panels and a rooftop garden. The hotel’s rainwater management system collects 97% of rainwater, which is used for irrigation and cooling.
Marriott Marquis Washington DC, one of the largest LEED Silver certified hotels in the United States, incorporated the historic brick AFL-CIO building into its design. Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown is home to over 100,000 honeybees, providing honey for the hotel’s culinary program.
Beehives on the rooftop at Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown
Fairmont Washington DC, Georgetown is not only a luxury hotel but also a haven for thousands of honeybees. Honey harvested from rooftop hives is used in many of the hotel’s dishes and drinks, providing a distinctive flavor and contributing to bee conservation.
Furthermore, Certo, located in the Royal Sonesta Washington DC Dupont Circle, is committed to being a leader in sustainability with a rooftop garden that creates produce for composting. Viceroy offers wooden key cards and e-bills to guests, as well as discounted parking for hybrid vehicles. Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center has water stations, green roof areas, and smart LED lighting systems. Kimpton Banneker partners with Clean the World to recycle unused soap, providing hygiene kits to impoverished communities.
Sustainable Catering Services for Conferences and Events
Catering companies in Washington D.C. are also moving towards environmentally responsible operations. Windows Catering Company focuses on waste reduction and pre-consumer waste composting. Occasions Caterers partners with the Green Restaurant Association to implement eco-friendly practices, including water filtration and bottling systems, biodegradable service ware, and local ingredients.
Corn fritter and lobster hors d'oeuvres served by Ridgewells Catering
Ridgewells Catering, a leader in sustainable catering, is constantly seeking innovative solutions to minimize environmental impact while serving events.
Ridgewells Catering, RSVP Catering, and Design Cuisine use fish and seafood from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Green List, as well as local and organic spirits and beverages. Main Event Caterers provides high-quality sustainable food and beverage services for all meetings and conferences.
Conclusion
Washington D.C. is becoming an attractive green travel destination, where visitors can enjoy exciting experiences while contributing to environmental protection. With the efforts of restaurants, hotels, and catering companies, this city is proving that tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand. Are you ready to explore these green travel spots in Washington D.C.?