The realities of the global climate crisis can seem overwhelming. Every day, there’s new information about how the environment and human health are being threatened. And the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic has people wondering about possible parallels.

But there are plenty of Orange County residents fighting to make positive change. We highlight that great work here—from green businesses and university researchers to volunteer groups and civil servants. Passionate locals are working together to create a sustainable future; let them inspire you to take action in ways large and small.

The Surfrider Foundation designates restaurants as ocean-friendly if they meet all of the following criteria:

No Styrofoam is used.
Proper recycling practices are followed.
Only reusable foodware is used for on-site dining.
No plastic bags are offered with to-go orders, and utensils are provided only upon request.
Paper straws are provided only upon request. Exceptions may be made for alternatives made from other naturally occurring materials and reusables.

They must also meet two of the following criteria:

No beverages are sold in plastic bottles.
A discount is offered for customers who bring a reusable cup, container, bag, etc.
Vegetarian/vegan food options are offered on a regular basis.
All seafood is Best Choice or Good Alternative as defined by Seafood Watch or certified sustainable.
Water conservation and pollution-mitigation efforts are implemented.
Energy-efficiency efforts are in place.

The List

Sunsets Bar and Grill, Capistrano Beach

Zinc Cafe & Market, Corona del Mar

Waterman’s Harbor, Dana Point

Still Water, Dana Point

Monarch Bay Beach Club, Dana Point

Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, Dana Point

Maison Cafe & Market, Dana Point

Bistro Provincia, Dana Point

Secret Spot, Huntington Beach

Tanner’s, Huntington Beach

Henry’s Ocean View Dining, The Waterfront Beach Resort, Huntington Beach

Duke’s Huntington, Huntington Beach

Stoney’s Pizza, Huntington Beach

Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails, Irvine

Taco Rosa, Irvine Marketplace, Irvine

Harvest, The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Driftwood Kitchen, Laguna Beach

The Deck, Laguna Beach

Central Laguna Beach, Laguna Beach

Catmosphere Laguna, Laguna Beach

Mozambique, Laguna Beach

Zinc Cafe & Market, Laguna Beach

Hendrix, Laguna Niguel

Taco Rosa, Newport Hills, Newport Beach

The Cellar, San Clemente

Rocco’s Restaurant, San Clemente

Antoine’s Café, San Clemente

HH Cottons, San Clemente

Read more from this cover story at orangecoast.com/sustainingoc.