The Rising Loafer Café and Bakery’s mission is to “contribute to the well-being of their community by serving food for people who eat well and live longer away from illness”. Serving breakfast and lunch, they design their menu with locally grown ingredients free from additives and toxins to help reduce the business’ carbon footprint and support the local economy. They also started a back-business garden and are a certified Bay Area Green Business. The Rising Loafer Café and Bakery has reduced their waste over 80% by recycling, reusing, and refurbishing materials. They banned Styrofoam™ products, use “real” plates and silverware; recycle animal fats/plastics/cardboard/cans/and glass; made tables out of old doors; use environmentally friendly cleaning products; installed low flow faucets and toilets; use energy and water efficient appliances; replaced light bulbs with energy saving units; and installed timers on equipment. The owners are also recognized leaders in sustainability and regularly share their green restaurant knowledge and experience with other businesses in the community while also training young adults in environmentally friendly operation of restaurants by partnering with the Job Corp of America and the Berkeley Youth Alternative to offer internships.
