by Jacqueline Pennington

Running a business sustainably is no easy feat; it can be costly and add extra steps to an already overflowing to-do list. However, some Charlotte-area businesses have decided to take on the task despite its challenges. These businesses have chosen to prioritize minimizing their impact to the environment and commit to changes that better their community. For that, they earn a “Green Crown” that they can proudly display in their front window. 

The Green Crown program is run by the City of Charlotte’s Office of Sustainability and Resiliency.  It’s a voluntary, cost-free program that food and beverage establishments around the city are encouraged to participate in. They can earn either one, two, or three crowns based on their level of participation and sustainability practices. The application asks these establishments to showcase how they meet the criteria that includes actions like properly composting, recycling, or repurposing food waste; using fuel efficient delivery vehicles; or purchasing at least 50 percent of products from regional vendors. Each of these criteria translates to a certain number of points toward earning Green Crown recognition.

Currently, the program is being revamped to expand its reach by allowing applications from not just restaurants but other businesses such as catering companies and hotels, widening its impact.

Robyn Byers, Assistant Director at the Office of Sustainability and Resilience, is working closely with the consultant who is going to help revamp the program. “We still have the fourteen members that were certified through last year,” Byers says. “They’re still on our website so you know who they are and we encourage everyone to go to whichever one makes the most sense for you and your family. In addition to that, we’re looking at the larger business community to expand the program so it’s not just food. We just had our kickoff meeting last month and we’re going to start delving into this and learning from our existing members to understand how we can add more value.”

The applications will be closed until this process is completed. Here are the 14 Charlotte businesses that are active members that will remain in the program while the changes take place.

Three Green Crowns:

• Birdsong Brewing
• Fonta Flora Brewing
• Lenny Boy Brewing
• The Loyalist Market
• Mariposa
• NoDa Brewing Company
• Pasta & Provisions
• Smelly Cat Coffee House & Roastery
• Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
• Free Range Brewing
• Taco Greengo

Two Green Crowns:

• Edge City Brewery
• Swirl Dessert Bar
• YAFO Kitchen

In an industry where costs are tight and shortcuts can be profitable, these businesses take the time, effort, and investment to do prioritize the environment and their community. As more customers prioritize supporting sustainable businesses, this list will continue to grow. 

The Office of Sustainability and Resiliency anticipates the updates to the program to be completed in 2026. They will open applications again at that time. More information can be found on their website.