Five practical ways hospitality businesses can cut their environmental impact

Sustainability is a growing priority for the hospitality sector… and for good reason. Between energy consumption, food waste, and packaging, restaurants, cafés and hotels have a significant environmental footprint. But while the pressure to “go green” is high, many small and medium-sized businesses don’t know where to start.

Here are five realistic, cost-effective actions any hospitality business can take to reduce its environmental impact, without compromising on quality or profitability.

1. Optimise energy use in the kitchen

Commercial kitchens are among the most energy-intensive spaces in the service industry. Switching to energy-efficient appliances, using induction cooktops, and regularly maintaining refrigeration systems can significantly lower energy bills and carbon emissions.

Additionally, simple behaviour changes, such as switching off idle equipment or installing motion-sensor lighting in storage areas, can make a surprising difference.

2. Source local and seasonal ingredients

Food miles are a major contributor to a restaurant’s carbon footprint. By choosing local suppliers and seasonal produce, businesses can reduce emissions associated with transportation and storage. It also adds a fresh, regional flair to the menu, something increasingly valued by customers.

3. Improve waste sorting and recovery

Recycling isn’t just about paper and plastic. Hospitality venues generate various types of waste, including organic matter, packaging, and oils. Setting up proper waste separation systems helps divert significant volumes from landfills.

A specialised used cooking oil collection service, for example, ensures that waste oil is properly recovered and recycled into biodiesel or other sustainable materials — turning a hygiene problem into a climate solution.

4. Choose sustainable service partners

Suppliers and service providers are extensions of your environmental footprint. Whether it’s your laundry service, cleaning contractor or waste collector, choosing partners with sustainability credentials matters.

Companies like Quatra offer practical, kitchen-focused solutions,  including certified used oil collection and fresh oil delivery in one visit. This helps hospitality businesses stay compliant, reduce risks, and contribute to the circular economy, while also saving time and keeping operations running smoothly.5. Communicate your sustainability efforts

Green initiatives shouldn’t stay in the back office. Whether it’s on menus, websites or receipts, communicating your sustainability practices helps build trust with increasingly eco-conscious customers. Just make sure claims are clear and verifiable: authenticity is key.

A greener industry starts with daily habits

Sustainability in hospitality isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. By taking practical steps and partnering with the right service providers, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint while gaining a competitive edge in a changing market.