How green are food trucks?

This past weekend the Des Moines Social Club hosted the Iowa Beverage Food Truck Throw Down. A successful event with more than 9,000 people attending according to its Facebook page.

That got me thinking. Des Moines has finally caught up with the rest of America on the food truck craze. But, how green is the idea?

Here are a couple of ideas on how food trucks can lower the energy footprint of your next meal.

1. The energy usage is small compared to a restaurant with lights, air conditioning, and dish washing. Restaurants also take much energy to build. The food truck takes advantage of the open air.
2. The locations are in the downtown core serving workers and fostering a walkable city. Sure the truck drove to the spot but everyone else didn’t. I can’t imagine driving to a food truck for a meal. If you think of it DON’T DO IT! 
3. They provide a quick choice to get out of the office for some fresh air, which is great for your well-being. And think of the social benefits!
4. No food truck wants to deal with waste. Food wrapped in paper means no water to wash all the dishes. If your favorite truck uses Styrofoam, tell them to use paper instead.

But the best part for me as an architect are the designs of the food trucks.  I fell in love with CHEF because of the industrial food truck and great graphics.

Got a favorite food truck picture?  Send it to me at rsmith@smithmetzger.com