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Why should Restaurants Care about Sustainability?

The word ‘Sustainability’ gets thrown around easily. Sustainability means knowing that the resources on the earth are exhaustible. It means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations.

Food alone is responsible for approximately 26% of global GHG emissions.

Each year billions of tonnes of food are wasted. 222 Million tonnes of food is wasted at the retail and consumer level alone. For context, the total food produced in Sub-Saharan Africa in a year is 230 million tonnes. You could feed an estimated 1.17 billion people with this surplus that is wasted.

Reports like these have given people around the world a wake-up call. It has urged them to look at their current choices and opt for sustainable practices. Studies show that 85% of the population has shifted their choices to a more sustainable ones. 34% of the world population is willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. And these numbers are rising.

So, what role do you have as a restaurant owner in a world that is moving to sustainable practices?

Use recyclable products: 56% of packaging and other ‘non-food’ waste are thrown away could’ve been easily recycled. Opt for biodegradable utensils, cutlery, paper, soaps, etc. Educate your staff well about recycling.
In-House Produce: Inhouse ‘organic’ produce can save you more on transport, logistics, etc. It also helps you stand out and attract more customers.
Plan to reduce wastage: Over a third of all food produced (~2.5 billion tons) is lost or wasted each year. You can do this by planning your meals, so you have to buy only what you need. This will also help your restaurant save money.
Better Inventory Management: It will minimize tons of waste and save a lot of money! As, more often than not, restaurants end up buying and storing more supplies than they need.
Unused food items? Partner with a local shelter or food bank to donate edible food items. You can even offer edible food to the homeless in your area.
Composting: Whatever isn’t edible, find methods to compost it and give back to the planet.

Reduce water wastage: You can install flow restrictors on the water faucets.

Using Biodegradable Bins: These bins decompose in a few months to a maximum couple of years. On the other hand, a standard bin takes decades.

How can you save energy around your restaurant?

Install motion-sensor-equipped lights and bulbs.
Turn off electrical equipment like ovens, juicers, etc before closing the work day.
Verified energy seals on your refrigeration and AC systems. It will save you around 80% of your energy usage. It might cost more but it is a long-term investment that will save you money.

What about a Seasonal Menu?

Offering a seasonal menu is a great way to make a restaurant sustainable. It helps you cut down the spending and production of non-seasonal crops during the off-season. It also will lead to improved customer experience and better sales.

Scottish Cafe, UK changes its menu monthly to serve the fresh produce at its peak. While restaurants like Gate change their menu every season, that is 4 times a year.

Sustainability is a long game. You can lead the change to a world better with sustainability and inspire others to join you. What sustainable steps are you currently following for your restaurant? Let us know in the comment section below.

Published By Blessie