Restaurants have the potential to make a significant positive impact on the environment. Here are five key actions that restaurants can take to become more environmentally friendly:
- Source local and sustainable ingredients: Purchasing locally sourced and sustainably produced ingredients can help reduce the environmental footprint of a restaurant. This practice supports local farmers and reduces the carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation.
- Reduce food waste: Implementing strategies to reduce food waste, such as careful inventory management, appropriate portion sizes, and creative use of leftovers, can significantly decrease the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills. Restaurants can also consider composting to divert food scraps from traditional waste streams.
- Use eco-friendly packaging: Opt for biodegradable or compostable packaging materials instead of traditional plastic or Styrofoam containers. Additionally, encourage customers to bring their own containers for takeout orders to further reduce single-use packaging waste.
- Conserve energy and water: Implement energy-efficient appliances and lighting, and consider installing water-saving devices to reduce water consumption. Simple steps, such as turning off equipment when not in use and using natural light during the day, can also contribute to energy conservation efforts.
- Implement recycling programs: Establish comprehensive recycling programs within the restaurant to properly dispose of recyclable materials, including glass, paper, cardboard, and certain plastics. Educate staff about the importance of recycling and provide clear guidelines on how to sort and dispose of different types of waste.
By incorporating these practices, restaurants can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and contribute to a more environmentally conscious food industry. Additionally, such initiatives can often lead to cost savings in the long run and improve a restaurant’s reputation among environmentally conscious consumers.

Stephen is a hospitality professional from Johannesburg South Africa. His career started with THF hotels in the UK and subsequently with the Southern Sun Hotel group in Johannesburg. Stephen’s first steps into entrepreneurship was Hickmore Recruitment / CareerMap, a leading supplier of Senior and Exec recruitment services. Stephen was a founder of Pple Hospitality (formerly HSC) the largest Hospitality Industry full-service outsourced staffing company in South Africa. In March 2020 Stephen became a director and owner of the Swiss Hotel School South Africa, which is now his full time endeavour. Stephen writes for a number of publications on food and hospitality industry matters, trends and opinions.