It’s no secret that we believe small changes and individual actions can create massive impact when it comes to climate change. Through our relationship with Zero Foodprint, we’re reminded daily that collective efforts translate into real results, which is why we won’t stop nerding out about their mission to regenerate the soil.
As we look around us at others in our ecosystem, we’re constantly inspired by the ways visionary entrepreneurs and leaders are showing up for the planet. When we pause to take notice, it fills us with so much hope to see the ingenuity, innovation and enthusiasm that’s out there.
This Earth Day, we’re doing exactly that. Pausing to notice a few companies who are doing awesome things that are worth celebrating. The best part? Their actions aren’t confined to a few weeks on a calendar; they’re in it for the long haul. Like us, they also believe that it really is possible to change the world when we’re all in on it together.
Richlite
Gavin Knowles, the lead architect on our Flour + Water Pizzeria flagship in North Beach, was the one who introduced us to Richlite. As we aim to build more sustainable restaurant spaces, we were excited to learn about this Tacoma, Washington-based manufacturer of paper composite surface materials. The company was founded during World War II, initially to prototype parts and and create tooling material for Boeing. A baker found a scrap piece at the Boeing Surplus store, and unearthed an entirely new use purpose for Richlite in the kitchen. Today, Richlite is an absolute workhorse with its materials (made entirely of recycled paper!) showing up in architectural surfaces, skate ramps, guitar fretboards, industrial surfaces and more. We use Richlite for counter and table surfaces throughout our Bay Area Pizzeria and Pizza Shops, and are proud to feature it on the work station/table in our North Beach flagship’s Dough Room. All the dough we produce at the Pizzeria meets that Richlite surface; we love its durability, antimicrobial properties and the ease with which we can maintain it. Home cooks can get in on the Richlite action in several capacities including swapping out their cutting boards for Epicurean's which are crafted with the paper composite.
Photo Credit: Kristen Loken
Row 7 Seed Company
Since day 1 of Flour + Water, our menus have been written based on the best, peak of season produce that’s available in that current moment in time. If fava leaves find their way into our walk in, we’re 1000% going to obsess over the best way to showcase them in a dish. When legendary chef Dan Barber introduced Row 7 Seed Company in 2018 as a way to connect chefs and consumers with new breeds of ethically-cultivated, organic vegetables, we were immediately along for the ride. Each year, we look forward to the email from the Row 7 team about the flavor-rich vegetables they’re harvesting – from the koginut squash that inspired their launch to sugarcone cabbage to sweet garleek. It's like being handed an entirely new color to paint with.
This year, the company expanded their seed-to-table model through the launch of a tinned vegetable line that preserves the deliciousness of their harvest for easy weeknight cooking. The tins can be found online and in the produce aisle at Whole Foods Market locations across the Northeast with offerings that include Sweet Prince Tomatoes, Badger Flame Beets, and the aforementioned Sweet Garleek. Needless to say, we’re all in on Row 7’s approach to breeding nutrient-dense seeds that translate into better food and healthier soul.
Photo Credit: Row 7 Seed Company
Fireclay Tile
We’re taking you from tins to tile here, but can’t say enough good things about our Easy Bay neighbors at Fireclay Tile. This certified B-Corp brand views sustainability as a responsibility, prioritizing the health of its people and the planet in all aspects of their operations. In addition to being certified by The Climate Label, their Aromas, California manufacturing facility is powered by renewable solar energy to minimize their environmental impact. Oh, and did we mention their ceramic brick tiles are stunning? We collaborated with Fireclay for custom green, recycled brick tilework that’s become a key design feature in our Mission Rock and Oakland Flour + Water Pizza Shops.
Photo Credit: Kristen Loken
Zero Foodprint’s Dirty Drinks Campaign
We’d be remiss to not mention that our pals at Zero Foodprint just announced the return of their “Dirty Drinks” bar & bev campaign that is taking place this summer from August 24th through the 30th. The effort invites drinkmakers at bars, coffee shops, and restaurants around the country to create or serve any beverage that celebrates the spirit (heh) of a healthier planet. During the campaign week, $1 from every drink sold goes directly to farmers building healthy soil via Zero Foodprint’s Restore Grants program. From a consumer standpoint, it’s one of the easiest ways to be part of the movement. Bottom's up, friends.