The Green Restaurant Association certifies restaurants and awards points in how many environmental categories?

The Green Restaurant Association certifies restaurants based on a comprehensive approach to sustainability, which encompasses seven distinct environmental categories. These categories include water efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable food, and others that focus on reducing the environmental impact of restaurant operations. By offering points in these categories, the association allows restaurants to assess their sustainability efforts and work towards improvements, ultimately encouraging more eco-friendly practices across the industry. This multifaceted approach helps restaurants not only to minimize their ecological footprint but also to appeal to an increasingly environmentally-conscious consumer base.