Zero Waste Takeout Program
Ann Arbor Reduce, Reuse, Return: A2R3
Participate in zero waste take out at any of our partner locations. Just scan the QR in store to check out a container!
👉 Join as a business
Getting Started
Using The System
Request
When you get to a restaurant click “Check Out a Container” above and show your confirmation when you request a returnable takeout container.
Rinse
When you’ve finished your delicious food make sure to rinse out the container, or just stick it in the dishwasher.
Return
Make sure you return your containers as soon as you can to keep the cycle going!
Getting Help
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A2R3
Ann Arbor Reduce, Reuse, Return is a returnable container program, currently in the second pilot phase. This program aims to reduce the amount of waste produced by restaurants in our community by providing restaurant patrons with reusable, returnable take-out containers.
Why switch to reusable/returnable containers?
In 2019, 55.7 million cubic yards of waste were added to landfills in Michigan. Over its lifespan, one reusable takeout container can save up to 1,000 others types of takeout containers from entering our landfills, an important step towards achieving zero waste goals.
What are the containers made of?
The containers are made of polypropylene (PP). This is the same material used in many single-serve containers, like yogurt cups. PP is an FDA-approved food contact material and is nonvolatile, meaning it will not react with any type of food.
Are the containers microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe?
Yes!
Can I eat hot food out of these containers?
Yes – the containers are made of polypropylene, which is nonvolatile, meaning it will not react with food. This material is an FDA-approved food contact material.
How are the containers cleaned?
We ask that customers return their containers clean; however, to ensure sanitization, t he containers are run through industrial dishwashers at each restaurant before being reused.
Can I keep the container?
We ask that you please return all of your containers as soon as possible after you are finished with the food that was served in them. We have a limited number of containers in circulation and are relying on customers like you to return containers so we can continue the program!
Where are the containers made?
The majority of the containers in the program were produced in the United States by US-based company OZZI.
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