I've discovered my new favorite thing about Salt Lake.
Earlier today I went into SLC Roasting Company and ordered an iced coffee. While I stood in line I prepared to ask the barista to serve my coffee in a real glass. No paper or plastic, please. This is how we do it in the rest of Utah--at least those of us mildly interested in conservation of some sort. We gather the mental courage to ask for a mug or glass or a bowl or whatever--always risking an exasperated stare--because most cafes in Utah, especially Starbuck's, assume you'd rather sip from a paper cup.
Not so in many of the cafes around Salt Lake: I was about to make my request when the barista cut me off. "Are you leaving or staying?" Slightly surprised, I replied that I'd be staying, whereupon the barista crouched below the bar and resurfaced with a tall, heavy glass mug. "We only have one size," she said. That's perfectly fine with me. I'd rather walk out seizing with caffeine from any cafe than have to throw away another stupid paper cup, complete with seemingly-wise, simplistic quote about life's foibles.
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You need to buy your own mug! I have some extras, I'll try to remember to bring one in to you. That way you never have to deal with timid and confused barista's whose poster is all very eco-friendly and hip but don't really get how to make a difference, its more a persona than a philosophy.
ReplyDeleteIts these important small personal adjustments that in a collective can make huge differences. The Sustainability Think Tank created a brochure that recommended these kinds of changes, I'll see if I can find a copy of it for you.
Good instincts!