Sustainability

Embracing Environmental & Social Responsibility

Taking green initiatives and finding ways to give back to the community all relates to our corporate philosophy of ningenmi, to respect the people and environment surrounding us. So whether it’s as simple as cutting back on water bottles, getting involved in a charity or changing a lightbulb, we see every bit as a crucial step in operating a more sustainable and smart business.

Vivreau Water System: The food industry talks about “food miles” and the water industry talks about “water miles.” Transporting bottled water from Europe and the Pacific Islands creates a huge negative impact on the environment. Not only is water being transported by road, creating congestion and pollution, there is also the issue surrounding glass and plastic packaging waste.That’s why in 2010, Miku Restaurant invested in the Vivreau System to filter and bottle tap water on-site. Metro Vancouver tests tap water over 136,000 times a year to make sure it is safe to drink, and Vivreau ensures our tap water tastes great. For info on the Vivreau System, visit http://www.vivreau.com

A portion of the Vivreau proceeds goes towards supporting :
Growing Chefs!, a local non-profit organization that sends chef volunteers into elementary schools—where they grow vegetables, cook with kids, and get kids excited about eating healthy food. On the chefs’ first visit, they plant windowsill gardens with the students, then return every 2 weeks for 3.5 months to help the kids care for the gardens, taste new food, and do lessons on urban agriculture and cooking. At the end of the program, the chefs help the students prepare delicious meals with the vegetables they have grown. The organization strives to create a forum for chefs to share their knowledge with the greater community and aims to inspire children with the idea they can grow food anywhere, even in the city. To learn more, visit growingchefs.ca.

Ocean Wise Program: Miku Restaurant is downtown Vancouver’s first Ocean Wise Japanese restaurant. This conservation program, administered by the Vancouver Aquarium, recognizes restaurants supporting sustainable seafood choices and fishing practices. Menu items approved by the program receive the Ocean Wise logo, which is recognized by diners all across Western and Central Canada. At Miku Restaurant, we firmly believe the importance of empowering our guests to have the option to make sustainable choices. For program details, visit http://www.oceanwise.ca/.

Community Engagement: Giving back to the community that supports us is important to us; that’s why, throughout the year, we try our best to support as many events hosted by local businesses and charity initiatives. Whether it’s sponsoring gift certificates, catering to an event or volunteering we are proud to be engaged in the community beyond restaurant borders.  For consideration, please submit your requests to: sophia@aburirestaurants.com and we will do our best to help where we can.