Developing an Environmentally-Friendly Restaurant
People eating takeout

Written by Lance Redditt

August 22, 2023

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on sustainability and environmentalism in the food service industry. As a result, many restaurant owners and managers are seeking out environmentally-friendly equipment options to reduce their impact on the planet. The following are some great ways to make your food service equipment more environmentally-friendly.

Improve Energy Efficiency 

One of the most significant ways that food service equipment can be made more environmentally-friendly is by improving its energy efficiency. Using less energy to run equipment can help reduce the carbon footprint of a restaurant or commercial kitchen. Energy-efficient equipment can also help save money on utility bills, making it a win-win situation. You may be familiar with air curtains in the restaurant industry, but did you know that Berner’s Air Curtains provide energy savings and reduce CO2 emissions? They do, and we supply them! Check them out here for more information.

Use Natural Refrigerants 

Many commercial refrigeration units use hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, which are known to be harmful to the environment. However, there are now refrigeration units available that use natural refrigerants like carbon dioxide or propane. These natural refrigerants are much less damaging to the environment and have a much lower global warming potential than HFC refrigerants. One of the manufacturers we represent prides themselves on using eco-friendly refrigerants, energy saving components, and a highly efficient design on all of their products. Check out Master-Bilt and contact us for more information and to place an order!

Reduce Waste

Another way that food service equipment can be made more environmentally-friendly is by reducing waste. For example, many restaurants now use dishwashers that only use a small amount of water and detergent to clean dishes. This not only reduces water usage but also reduces the amount of detergent that goes down the drain and into the environment. Additionally, some equipment manufacturers are now designing equipment that uses food waste as a fuel source, further reducing waste and the impact on the environment. To take this a little further, manufacturers we represent are making products to last. These longer-lasting items will reduce the amount of kitchen equipment having to be thrown away and replaced. For example, Vollrath’s Super Pan V series consists of pans made from 22-gauge stainless steel with reinforced corners which will resist dents and dings, maintaining the tight fit you need to lower HVAC and energy expenses, while also decreasing the strain on heating elements. By investing in these pans, you’re saving all the way around. Contact us for more information on how to purchase them. 

Opt for Durability and Recyclability 

When selecting equipment, it’s important to look for products that are durable and can be recycled at the end of their useful life. This helps reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills and minimizes the environmental impact of the equipment. A good example of this is another of our manufacturer’s, Eloma. They pride themselves in the longevity of their products; efficiently running for 10 to 15 years, with 100% of their packaging material being recyclable. With a lifespan like that, you avoid the need to replace equipment every few years or so. Check out their website for more information.

Materials

The materials used to make food service equipment can have a significant effect on its environmental impact. For example, equipment made from recycled materials or renewable resources is much more environmentally-friendly than equipment made from virgin materials. Additionally, equipment made from materials that are easy to recycle, such as stainless steel or aluminum, can help reduce the environmental impact of the equipment. Almost every piece of equipment we supply is stainless steel or aluminum. Check out our products for more information!
Overall, there are many ways that food service equipment can be made more environmentally-friendly. By selecting energy-efficient, waste-reducing, durable, and recyclable equipment, you can reduce your restaurant’s carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. Not only does this benefit the planet, but it can also save you money. Contact us to find your TRFS rep, and let us help you with all of your restaurant equipment needs!

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