CHAPTERS

 
​  OFE is a chapter-based organization, with our main chapter located in Cape Fear, North Carolina. We have chapters all over the United States and Canada and are always happy to have new ones started.

Cape Fear NC Chapter
ofe@plasticoceanproject.org

Outer Banks NC Chapter 
​outerbanksofe@gmail.com

Crystal Coast NC Chapter
rebeccad@crystalcoastwaterkeeper.org

Global Chapter
globalofe@gmail.com

Topsail NC Chapter 
topsailofe@gmail.com

Brunswick County Chapter
micki.bozeman@brunswickcountync.gov

Want to start a new chapter in your area?

Did you know that you can start a chapter in your own town or city? We’ll support you with resources and tips along the way, and you’ll have the support of one of our volunteers as you get started. Whether you sign up your favorite local restaurant or a non-restaurant business you work for, or you get the larger community on board, you’ll be an part of a team helping to keep our Earth green and our oceans blue for future generations to come.

If you’re thinking about starting a chapter, please contact Justine Chew at justine@plasticoceanproject.org to get started!

Want to hear the success story of Crystal Coast's chapter? Read below for their origin write-up:

In 2016, the Crystal Coast chapter of Ocean Friendly Establishments became the first sister program to the Cape Fear chapter. A group of dedicated volunteers followed the lead of Cape Fear and began certifying restaurants from Swansboro to Beaufort that were only offering straws upon request. Surfrider Bogue Banks came on as a founding partner to expand outreach and resources.
In 2019, the program changed hands to Crystal Coast Waterkeeper. Program Coordinator, Rebecca Drohan, now works to recruit and promote OFEs reaching from Harkers Island to Swansboro. The program diversified to include other types of businesses taking steps to reduce plastic waste. Today, there are 30 OFEs including restaurants, breweries, local produce markets, hotels, and more! There are even some really unique local businesses like herbalists, a record shop, and artisans. Crystal Coast OFE continues to broaden the area’s network of business owners dedicated to protecting our oceans by reducing plastic waste and beyond.