Sustainability in Catering: Win-Win-Win

Numbers don’t lie, and 57% of consumers say sustainability practices at least somewhat influence their choices when dining away from home. This includes widespread support for policies that reduce the use of single-use plastic products like tableware. Sustainability has become a paramount concern in every industry, including catering and events. 

Changing consumer values have prompted shifts toward more eco-conscious practices across the foodservice industry in response to the global environmental crisis. Event organizers and caterers increasingly need to prioritize sustainable practices to reduce their environmental footprint and reduce costs, while providing memorable, elevated experiences. 

Green practices provide a win-win-win for guests, the Earth, and the bottom line.

Thoughtful choices 

Sustainable catering focuses on minimizing environmental impact through thoughtful choices in food sourcing and in reduced food and beverage waste. 

Sustainable sourcing can mean local and organic ingredients, which supports local farmers and communities, and reduces the carbon footprints associated with transporting ingredients over long distances. Organic and local farming, and the concept of "farm-to-table," have gained significant traction as easily recognizable methods of communicating fresher, tastier, healthier, ingredients and dishes produced with lower environmental impact.

73% of consumers want to reduce food waste, and rising food & labor costs are top concerns across foodservice, including catering. Controlling portion and pour sizes can play a huge part in waste reduction, with either skilled or unskilled servers. Properly sized tableware and pour control glasses can help prevent waste and save operators thousands over the year. Wine glasses, for instance, with custom etching or geometric curves can provide a subtle serving cue that prevents overpours, helping to control costs and maximize profits.  

The benefits of reusable tableware

One of the most effective ways to reduce waste at events is by opting for reusable tableware instead of single-use plastics. Reusable plates, cups, and cutlery made from materials like glass, ceramic, and durable plastics can be used multiple times, drastically reducing the need for disposable alternatives. Even for outdoor events when breakage may be a concern, glasses made from BPA-free copolyester can provide a glass-like brilliance even after extensive use and can elevate the dining experience.

While the initial cost of purchasing reusable tableware may be higher, the long-term benefits are substantial. Reusable tableware made with materials like melamine, or with recycled materials, significantly reduce environmental impact. Rather than the endless production and disposal of single-use plastics, reusable items, when properly maintained, can last for years, minimizing waste and conserving resources. Over time, their cost-per-use decreases, making reusable options more economical than constantly buying (and discarding) disposable items.

For guests, the experience of holding a glass or durable plastic wine or beer glass could not be more different from a plastic “keg cup.” High-quality, reusable tableware adds a touch of elegance to any occasion, while also reducing the overall ecological footprint of the event. Again, everyone benefits–guests, operators, and the Earth.

Challenges and future directions

While the benefits of sustainable events are clear, there are also challenges to consider. Cost is a significant factor; up-front costs for sustainable ingredients and investment in sustainable tableware can sometimes make it easy to miss the forest for the trees. Long-term, though, premiumization and durability can help operators more than offset those initial costs. In fact, one third of consumers say they will pay a premium for sustainable products. Operators should prepare for demand to grow and for sustainability to become the expectation and not the exception.  

Communicating your commitment to greener practices to clients and attendees does not have to be another challenge. By highlighting your commitment to the environment and the benefits of practices like responsible sourcing, buying local, donating or composting leftovers, and serving with sustainable tableware, your operation can distinguish itself as an environmental champion. High-quality ingredients and the look and feel of high-quality tableware convey a message of uncompromised elegance and finer dining, regardless of venue or setting.

In fact, guests have already begun to expect exactly that combination of ecological responsibility and elevated dining experiences.  Our industry must continue to rise to the challenge of providing both. 

As awareness and demand for eco-friendly practices continue to rise, innovation in this field will likely lead to even more solutions. Adopting sustainable practices–from sourcing local ingredients, to reducing food and beverage waste, to choosing long-life tableware–will allow caterers and event organizers to make a significant positive impact and play a crucial role in fostering a healthier planet while delivering exceptional experiences.

In the long run, the numbers all add up to long-term benefits for the environment, our communities, and the catering and events industry.