By Nicole De Santis
If there is one New Years resolution that's worth making its to make some tweaks to start reducing waste in the office. Many companies are looking for ways to make a positive impact, and there's never a better time than the beginning of the year when people are willing to make changes. Companies can make a big impact with smarter catering orders to reduce food waste, food donation, and composting; an area that is often overlooked, but offers a huge opportunity to be more sustainable in the office.
1. Food Waste Reduction:
The first step in reducing food waste is prevention. Companies can start by encouraging employees not to waste, organizing catered office events with the idea of being less wasteful. Use a service like Deliver Zero to deliver takeout food in reusable containers, or talk with your caterer about reducing waste. If necessary, change to a caterer who is willing to use reusable and recyclable containers and to plan food quantities in order to prevent food waste. Using a food calculator like the Guestimator to ensure you are not over ordering, putting out the food a little at a time so what is not used can be donated or given to your co-workers, and having a focus on local, sustainable food options.
Tip: offering more whole foods and less animal products is a big win for the climate
2. Food Donation:
Instead of throwing away excess food, companies can partner with local food rescue organizations, shelters, and other community programs to donate extra food. Donating food not only helps reduce waste but also provides nourishment to those in need. Setting up a regular food donation program creates a positive culture of giving back, while supporting the community and promoting the company's ESG goals.
3. Composting:
Once you have ensured that you are not over-ordering and when all donatable food is given out, be sure you are Composting what's left. Composting is a simple and powerful way to divert organic waste from landfills, and reduce methane emissions at landfills which contribute to global warming. Companies can set up organics bins in pantries and break areas for collecting organic materials. Organic materials include all food scraps, coffee grounds and paper tea bags (with string and staple removed), meat, fish, pits and bones (check with your organic waste collector to make sure these items are acceptable), and wet or food-soiled paper (including tissues, napkins, and toilet paper.) Clean cardboard and office paper should go in the recycle bin. The organic materials in the compost bin will be turned into nutrient-rich compost fertilizer to replenish soils or biogas/renewable energy to power buildings or heat hot water in some cases. Setting up an office organics program can significantly reduce a company's environmental footprint while benefiting the planet.
Tip: Compostable cups, utensils, plates, etc. are most often not being composted and are usually not a more environmentally friendly alternative to other single use options. Always choose reusables whenever possible.
By taking steps to reduce food waste, donate excess food, and implement composting, businesses can kick off 2025 with a focus on being more sustainable.
Need help with food donation, and implementing a compost program in your office? Please reach out to Think Zero for assistance at info@thinkzero.com.
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