The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, more commonly referred to as COP26, was held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 31 October to 13 November 2021. The goal of this year’s conference was to enable and encourage countries affected by climate change to protect and restore ecosystems and build resilient infrastructure.
Bold action is needed by all industries – including hospitality – to deliver on the commitments that were made at Cop26. But even before the conference ended, the UK is continuing to step up and lead the way toward a cleaner, greener earth. Here are just two examples.
Scotland to ban single-use plastic
The Scottish government recently announced that a ban on most single-use plastics will take effect from June 2022. The ban includes the use of plastic cutlery, drink stirrers and food containers made from expanded polystyrene. Scotland is the first UK nation to enact the ban.
Hospitality operators should prepare now with simple but effective ways in transitioning from plastic products and reducing waste.
- Use bamboo or paper straws
- Store food in stainless steel containers
- Use lids to cover pots/saucepans in place of clingfilm
- Offer customers alternative materials such as reusable mugs, cutlery, bags, etc.
- Use recycled rather than biodegradable trash bags which end up in landfill
- Find suppliers who use recyclable or decomposable materials
- Swap to compostable products such as wood disposable cutlery and other plant based products
Our purchasing experts will be happy to assist in finding eco-friendly alternative products and suppliers that meet your budget and specifications.
Brits are demanding sustainable fish
The Brits love their fish and chips – so much that more than one third of UK citizens partake once a week and 65% eat this dish once a month. However, new research reveals there is strong consensus when it comes to sustainability. Concerns for the environment and a spike in vegan and vegetarian diets means customers want greener meals and diners are demanding their fish be sustainably sourced. Nearly 9 out of 10 diners (87%) agreed that sustainable fish is important to them. But only one-quarter (24%) said they knew what to look for when it came to sustainable fish in a fish and chip shop.
As sustainable fish continues to take priority, diners are demanding greater transparency, helping them to make the right decisions when they’re choosing from a menu. Successful ‘chippy’ operators will need to offer sustainable fish options on their menus and clearly communicate the benefits to customers.
What are the benefits to your business?
- Potential to reduce costs
- Quality, responsibly-sourced ingredients help you build a good reputation
- Offers opportunities to promote your commitment to sustainability
- Allows you to develop a great relationship with your trusted supplier
Enhance works with leading fish/seafood suppliers across the UK, and can help you source the freshest sustainable fish at the best price possible.