Recycling in restaurants is becoming more widespread as consumers are indicating that they prefer restaurants who recycle. Many restaurants are making green changes and are becoming more earth-friendly. A lot of quick service restaurants are using more biodegradable plates and cups, others are opting for refillable containers instead of using plastic water bottles.
The other green initiative that more restaurants are taking on is with their recycling and waste managament. Restaurants are recycling more, and not just cardboard. Many restaurants have expanded their recycling programs to include paper, plastic, metal, aluminum, and plastic.
Are you more likely to eat at a restaurant that you know recycles?
If the answer is “Yes”, you are not alone.
There is no doubt that environmental issues are important to consumers. In fact, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency, more than 90% of Americans want to protect the environment. Restaurants are taking note.
According to the National Restaurant Association:
- 65% of restaurant operators have recycling programs in place
- 60% of consumers prefer restaurants that recycle
- 51% of diners will even pay more to eat at an eco-friendly restaurant
Restaurant operators are finding that stepping up their recycling efforts is cost-effective. Some restaurants find that they need less frequent garbage pick-ups since they have less trash. In addition to waste hauling savings, other restaurants are also looking at their waste management overall. For instance, fast food restaurants who have installed the Smart Pack in the dining area have found that their trash needs to be emptied less often, and takes up less space. The staff is also happier because they have to empty the trash less (Read the case study about this McDonald’s Supplier).
Restaurants and other businesses contribute a lot to the landfills. But with recycling programs and better waste management in place, they can make a difference and minimize waste. Following the three R’s of Sustainability: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle is the foundation for long-lasting environmental change.
Read more about Best Practices for Recycling in Restaurants, Sustainability and Social Responsibility at the National Restaurant Association.
Is this topic important to you? You can also view the Infographic “Recycling in Restaurants” and learn how to share it on your website.
