Ted’s Montana Grill has a deep commitment to the environment and our goal is to be 99% plastic-free.  That’s why we re-introduced the paper straw, (not produced in the United States since 1970) and use it in all of our restaurants.  Menus are printed on 100% recycled paper.  Our to-go cups are made of cornstarch that bio-degrades in landfills in just 50 days.  Soft drinks are served in recyclable glass bottles.  Our take-away food is placed in Bio-Plus Earth Containers, which are high-quality, bio-degradable containers that are microwavable.  These containers have been endorsed by the Green Restaurant Association.  In addition to maintaining a 99% plastic-free restaurant, we also try to conserve energy and water.  In Tallahassee, Fla., we worked with the city’s Energy Services division and One World Sustainable Inc. to install 66 solar panels on the top of our restaurant.  And we are always looking for innovative ways to reduce our energy consumption like wind generators as well as low voltage lighting in all of our restaurants.  Many of the restaurants feature water-efficient toilets in order to help conserve water.  And all of our restaurants are non-smoking.