Several updates in technology are helping restaurants become more environmentally conscious. Whether it’s biodegradable packaging, lab-grown meats, or more efficient POS systems, technology is assisting restaurants in creating a more sustainable environment.
Introduction
When restaurateurs hear the term “sustainability,” they often think of reducing food waste, composting, sourcing methods of renewable or alternative energy, incorporating farm-to-table suppliers, and recycling, all of which aim to eliminate unnecessary waste and reduce a restaurant’s carbon footprint.
However, looking deeper into the subject, sustainable technology advancements can help restaurants reduce paper and food waste without compromising speed, efficiency, or the quality of the dining experience.
In addition to adopting environmentally-conscious strategies into operations, investing in restaurant-specific sustainable technology can help restaurants reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable, environmentally-conscious businesses. These investments will pay off with potential customers, as 73 percent of millennials say they would spend more on sustainable brands.
Online ordering systems and delivery apps
The food delivery market is worth more than $150 billion globally, which has tripled since 2017, primarily attributed to the pandemic, according to statistics from McKinsey. As restaurants remain vulnerable due to changing restrictions and stricter sanitary regulations, online food orders and contactless home deliveries have become more critical to the industry. These services will likely remain as diners have grown accustomed to ordering food on demand.
Third-party food delivery apps will continue to be essential for those unable to offer in-house ordering and delivery services. However, as many diners prefer ordering directly from restaurants, businesses should follow the lead of others and invest in developing integrated online platforms and apps for their customers. These ordering systems allow restaurants to stay closely connected with their customers. Another added bonus? A comprehensive ordering system reduces food waste and helps the kitchen run more efficiently.
Contactless payment
Contactless technology helps customers place an order online and pay via an app with a smartphone or smartwatch. With no cash in hand or human contact, these payments are quick, instant, and convenient, cutting down on paper waste and ensuring better financial tracking systems. It’s estimated that contactless payments will triple by 2024.
Online Reservation Systems
Booking a table via a phone call has been losing popularity as online table reservation technology takes on growing popularity. Reservation systems can quickly adapt and create a more straightforward process for guests. By streamlining the process through automation, your staff will be freed to help in other restaurant areas. With these systems in place, restaurants also have the opportunity to share unique culinary events and dining experiences beyond standard reservations with their customers.
Digital kitchen boards
Kitchen display systems are a digital menu board for kitchen staff to help streamline back-of-house operations. Directly linked to your restaurant’s POS system, the screen can display orders and flag special dietary requests. These programs can also track meal delivery times and monitor inventory to alert restaurants when products are out of stock. Integrated correctly, this technological solution can lead to a more sustainable kitchen operation.
Automated inventory management software
Automating inventory management involves tracking food and beverage stocks, anticipating quantities, and scheduling reorders. Implementing such software can reduce food waste, reportedly costing the hospitality industry nearly $100 billion annually. Partnerships with innovative platforms also save restaurants from wasting food surplus, making products available to potential customers searching for a meal deal.
QR codes
QR codes are popping up at restaurants worldwide. Offering several convenient benefits at relatively low costs for restaurants, QR codes help cut down on printing and reprinting menus and can provide a more comprehensive view of menu offerings. In this current no-touch era, auto-scanning barcodes with smartphone cameras allows customers to access online menus and pay – without contact – keeping diners and employees safer.
Air purification technology
Making diners feel safe and comfortable is critical. Upgrading sanitization systems through air purification technologies can promote clean air, protecting your guests and staff. Bipolar ionization can purify the air and surfaces in indoor spaces by neutralizing contaminants and is already showing promising results. Ultraviolet light can also be an effective air and surface sanitization method.
Acceleration of digitalization
The COVID-19 pandemic may have disrupted business as usual, but these challenges were an opportunity to accelerate technology trends, fast-track change, and re-imagine restaurants. Modern technology presents unique solutions for owners to run their businesses more efficiently and sustainably. These processes leave more time and energy to focus on creating better guest experiences, bringing down overhead costs, and contributing to a greener future.
Conclusion
As the industry moves forward, best practices in restaurant technology will only serve to help venues be more effective and, in turn, more sustainable. Educated diners will continue to seek out establishments that have a holistic approach to their menu, processes, and are better for the environment.
What sustainable practices do you have in your restaurant?
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