CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The penguins at the Shedd Aquarium got to take another field trip - and this time shined a light on an important conservation issue impacting aquatic animals.
While visiting Shaw's Crab House in Chicago to celebrate Chicago Restaurant Week, thee Magellanic penguins, along with the restaurant, brought attention to a major issue: plastic pollution.
Shaw’s is one of several restaurants participating in Chicago Restaurant Week that have committed to reducing their single-use plastic footprint via Shedd’s new Let's Shedd Plastic program for restaurants.
According to the Shedd, the Let’s Shedd Plastic program empowers restaurants to take feasible and measurable steps toward reducing their plastic footprint, which has only increased because of the pandemic. Offering the aquarium’s expertise to restaurant partners that join the program, Shedd hopes to engage restaurants from all 77 neighborhoods of the city to create a healthier and more sustainable, plastic-free future for people and aquatic life. A current list of participating restaurants can be found here.
The Shedd Aquarium said the field trip to Shaw’s provided great exercise for Shedd’s penguins, as well as added variety to their day and engaged their senses as they explored a new space.
The visit also highlighted the role of restaurants in fighting plastic pollution and illustrates how the threat of plastics is directly related to the health and wellbeing of the aquatic world.
Chicago Restaurant Week runs from March 19 through April 4 and features nearly 300 participating restaurants throughout Chicagoland offering specially priced prix fixe menus at brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Participating restaurants have COVID-19 safety precautions in place to ensure a safe dining experience. Plus for the first time ever, Chicago Restaurant Week is offering carryout and delivery options for folks who prefer to support from home.
NOTE: Shaw’s Crab House was closed to the public during the penguins’ field trip and all the proper cleaning and sanitization procedures were followed.
Related
