How to Celebrate Sustainably This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence but it’s also a time of waste and excess. From disposable packaging to festive decorations, food establishments often see an increase in plastic use.

By reducing plastic this Christmas your establishment can delight health-conscious customers whilst showing your commitment to protecting the planet. Here’s how you can embrace a plastic-free holiday season.

1.      Festive décor that’s kind to the planet.

· Choose natural elements such as pinecones, holly, eucalyptus, or other greenery for table settings and centrepieces.

· Invest in fabric tablecloths, wooden ornaments, or ceramic dishes that can be re used each year.

2.      Plastic-Free Takeout and Delivery

 Holiday catering and takeout services are big business, but they can generate a lot of waste.

· Switch to biodegradable or compostable containers made from materials like cornstarch, paper, or bamboo.

· Encourage customers to bring their own containers or offer a deposit-and-return program for reusable packaging.

3.      Promote Reusable Gifts

· The holidays are a perfect time to introduce eco-friendly branded items that customers can buy as gifts. Sell reusable water bottles, bamboo cutlery sets, tote bags, or glass jars with your logo.

· Encourage customers to gift experiences, like a dinner at your restaurant, instead of physical items.

4.      Eco-Friendly Waste Disposal

    Reducing waste is only part of the solution, proper disposal is just as crucial.

· Train your team on proper disposal methods. Make it easy for staff and customers to   separate waste into recyclables, compostables and landfill. Use clear signage to avoid contamination.

· Collaborate with local recycling facilities to ensure materials like cardboard, paper, and certain plastics are properly processed

· Offer compost bins for kitchen scraps and uneaten food. Partner with local composting services or use in-house composting systems if possible.

· The less waste you generate, the easier disposal becomes. Transition from single-use plastics to reusable or biodegradable options.

· Partner with local food banks or charities to donate unsold food. This reduces waste while supporting your community.

 A plastic-free Christmas isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for your business.