Blink:

Global heat records have been surging this summer. Consequently, I am constantly reviewing innovative solutions which are being implemented to offset the environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions in the food-away-from-home and hospitality sectors. An interesting update.

Read On:

In an old post Menu Greenwashing, as a food futurist, I questioned whether consumers will make food-away-from-home food choices based on the environment. Earlier this week I read about the U.K. company SKOOT which has created an Eco-Contribution tool designed to enable establishments to counteract the emissions generated from every meal by planting trees. How does it work? Upon receiving their bill, diners can choose to pay the optional Eco-Contribution set by the restaurant to offset emissions from the meal by planting a tree (note: each tree removes CO2). SKOOT estimates to date they have planted 800,000 trees with their tool which has countered a significant amount of CO2. Sounds good/positive! My thoughts:

• For restaurants to truly reduce the impact of their greenhouse emissions they will have to closely examine reducing their food waste, scrutinize their supply chain (e.g., responsible sourcing), as well as the energy they utilize for cooking.
• Are restaurants addressing how they are reducing their menu’s carbon footprint, really a marketing ploy (a.k.a. greenwashing) targeting environmentally conscious consumers. More importantly, as I have stated before, I question whether consumers will make food-away-from-home food choices based on the environment.

Opinions Welcomed!