Green changes in the food industry

Our attitude towards plastic is changing rapidly, and in 2018, we have seen countless examples of changes in how plastic is treated. As the oil-based substance is exposed as a leading cause of ocean waste, a tidal wave of negative images and videos have exploded across our social feeds. Single-use plastics are enduring particular attention as people begin to question its value.  At Re-Gen, we've looked at the material's effect in different sectors, and today we're seeing how it is managed and mismanaged in food and drink.

While this cause is one people are taking on individually, they are also demanding change from businesses.  As awareness grows of alternative materials and better practices, the pressure on companies to improve practices increases.

Golden Arches

Addressing plastic waste is by no means a new cause, it is merely better reported than before. Some businesses are ahead of the curve on this issue and have built a waste strategy into their very existence. One Belfast cafe, have made a green policy that is part of who they are. In embracing their Nordic theme, they also adopted Northern Europe's standout attitude to recycling and waste management. As opposed to plastic takeaway cups that take decades to decompose, Kaffe O use Veg Ware, a rapidly biodegrading alternative.

For some mega-corporations, a smaller change en massé can make a huge difference globally. The latest example is McDonald's who have replaced plastic straws with paper ones. It may seem like a tiny effort, but given that McDonald's dole out 1.8million straws daily, it's a huge change.

Burgers to beverages

The green shift is not only found in fast foods but in the drinks that accompany them. While Red Bull and Guinness-producer Diageo need to pull up their socks, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola are both considered to be eco-leaders in their sector. Their commitment to increased recycling levels, use of reused packaging and reducing waste generation has helped reduce their carbon footprints. The rankings by America's Natural Resource Defence Council did not make for altogether positive reading.

Not one of the 47 fast food or beverage chains listed managed to achieve the top score of 'Best Practice'. One of the major issues for these companies is the astronomical volume of materials required to feed each franchise daily; another aspect is the complexity of plastic recycling.

Not easy

As mentioned, plastic recycling is uniquely challenging, and it has taken technology a while to deliver sophisticated recycling methods. Thankfully, companies like Re-Gen can turn the product around and give disused plastics new life. While some companies are restricted to working with plastic bottles, we work with four main plastic waste types including rigid plastics, plastic film and WEEE.

Being able to process thee different types of plastic on both domestic and industrial levels, allows Re-Gen to help companies from all sectors reach recycling targets. From eateries to education facilities, Re-Gen Waste aims to offer custom solutions based on each company's needs.

For more information on what services we offer, contact us now