Companies of all sizes are cutting back on single-use plastics
Plastic waste has become a major issue for the environment. It’s clogging up our oceans, killing off wildlife, and causing a great deal of harm to the planet. So, in order to tackle the problem, major campaigns have been launched to try and reduce the amount of plastic waste both consumers and businesses are generating.
The hospitality industry is a major contributor to plastic waste, so companies have started to look into ways to combat the problem. Here, we’ll look at how the hospitality industry is combating plastic waste and the things businesses can do to help.
Cutting down on single use plastics
One of the biggest changes the hospitality industry is making to combat plastic waste is cutting down on single use plastics. Many major businesses, such as Ikea and Starbucks, have vowed to phase out single use plastics. One of the most popular moves companies have made to meet this target is to eliminate the use of plastic straws and single use plastic cups.
When you consider that around 8.8 million tons of plastic are dumped into the ocean each year, you quickly see why single use plastics are starting to be phased out. They do not decompose, so all of the plastic that is dumped into oceans and landfills is simply left to build up and cause all kinds of problems for the environment.
Increased waste recycling
Although businesses have been gradually increasing their recycling efforts, recently it’s become much more of a focus for brands within the hospitality industry. Not only are they focusing on tackling food waste, which is contributing towards global warming, but they’re also focusing on recycling more plastic waste.
By finding a good waste contractor, businesses can set up a recycling scheme, significantly helping to reduce plastic waste.
Investment into eco-friendly products
In a bid to help lower plastic waste, technology is constantly being developed to deliver more eco-friendly options. Plastic-like materials are being developed and improved all the time, giving businesses the option to invest in greener solutions instead. These plastic-like materials are designed to decompose at a faster rate, while still providing the same qualities as plastic.
When you invest in these kinds of greener materials, as well as focus on investing in eco-friendly appliances and equipment from companies such as Nisbets, you can make a significant impact on the environment.
A switch to local produce
A clever way businesses are cutting back on plastic waste, is by switching to local produce. As it doesn’t need to be shipped, local produce doesn’t tend to come with a lot of plastic packaging compared to that which is imported. It also means fewer carbon emissions are being released into the environment as the goods don’t need to travel far.
Overall, plastic waste is becoming a huge problem for our environment and businesses do need to start thinking about the impact they are having on the planet. Committing to lowering your plastic waste is one way you can make a significant difference and the above are just some of the ways you can do it.
