In a world increasingly conscious of its ecological footprint, the hotels, restaurants, and catering (HoReCa) sector have emerged as a lead champion of sustainability. Embracing a multitude of green initiatives, the sector is leading a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future.
At THAIFEX - HOREC Asia, HoReCa businesses can discover innovative approaches to reducing food waste, source items made of natural materials and find vendors to source locally and sustainably. Moreover, you’ll find the latest equipment that reduces operational costs because they save tremendous amounts of energy, yet deliver solutions at the highest possible standards. You can also discover brands that will help you clean in a more ecofriendly manner, benefiting the health of your staff and customers.
Innovative Approaches to Reducing Food Waste
Food waste, a long-standing issue in the hospitality industry, is being tackled through innovative methods. Initiatives include composting, recycling, and extending the shelf life of food using traditional preservation methods. Moreover, many businesses are donating excess food to local charities, turning waste reduction into a community-supportive effort.
Exhibitor NOW End of Waste is a Thai food waste management company that tailors their solution based on the amount of waste generated by a premise. Using a technology they call a 'Digester,' specially designed microbes efficiently break down food waste, including vegetables, meat, and small bones, into grey water within 24 hours. This grey water can be treated and managed by the premise or released into the city’s sewage and water treatment systems. NOW End of Waste also offers other technologies such as NOW Composters and In-Sink Grinders for food waste disposal.
Meet Porpong Shinawatr, Co-founder of NOW End of Waste
Ending Single-use Plastics
Exhibitor Alterpacks is a Singaporean company that turns organic waste into biodegradable and compostable materials that serve as alternatives to traditional plastic packaging. By upcycling food waste, such as spent grains from malt and barley, which are typically discarded after use in food manufacturing, Alterpacks repurposes them to create food containers. This process not only reduces waste but also contributes to a circular economy, transforming what would be waste into valuable and sustainable products. Alterpacks' mission and operations reflect a growing trend towards sustainable and environmentally conscious practices in business, particularly in the HoReCa sector.
In an effort to combat environmental pollution, the HoReCa sector is making a concerted effort to eliminate single-use plastics. This includes the adoption of biodegradable or reusable containers, straws made from sustainable materials like bamboo or rice, and the use of reusable utensils.
Exhibitors at THAIFEX - HOREC Asia such as Duni (Thailand) are at the forefront of transforming tableware, infusing eco-friendly sophistication into their products crafted from sustainable materials like bamboo and rice husk. These innovative offerings not only embody environmental mindfulness but also exude aesthetic appeal, catering to the increasing desire for sustainable dining options in the HoReCa sector.
Sourcing Locally and Sustainably
The shift to sourcing sustainable ingredients is another significant trend. By choosing locally grown produce, organic meats, and fair-trade coffee, businesses are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also supporting local farmers and producers, fostering a sense of community and sustainability.
For example, there are strong themes of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the Southeast Asian cafe market. In line with this, coffee flavour trends for 2024 are diverse and innovative, reflecting a growing interest in unique and sustainable coffee experiences. Exhibitors like Aroma Group from Thailand, who not only sell machinery and speciality filter equipment, will showcase uniquely local flavours in coffee and tea blends, along with syrups and juices to enhance drinks cafes sell.
Sustainability extends to the materials used in furnishing. One exhibitor, PT. Legit Kreasi Indonesia, from Yogyakarta, Central Java, specialize in sustainable furniture for commercial and residential projects. They work together with customers to create pieces made from natural materials that blend functionality with storytelling, designed to endure through generations.
Energy and Water Conservation
Energy consumption is being reduced through the use of energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. Similarly, water usage is being curtailed with low-flow faucets, water-efficient dishwashers, and comprehensive water conservation programs.
Exhibitors like Electrolux Professional will showcase advanced machines that help marry laundry management with convenience and yet lower the total operating costs of professional laundries without compromising on throughput. New machines help commercial laundries save up to 40% in running costs as their new ranges of commercial washers are designed to use the lowest possible water, energy and detergent consumption.
Meet Dusit Thani Public Company Limited Group CEO, Suphajee Suthumpun
Modernising kitchens to minimize carbon footprint entails upgrading older models of kitchenware to cutting-edge, energy-efficient equipment. Utilizing energy-saving appliances and adopting sustainable methods can significantly lower utility expenses. Moreover, adhering to environmental regulations can lead to perks like tax benefits and rebates. Additionally, consumer preferences are shifting towards kitchens that prioritize ecological responsibility, often choosing establishments that are transparent about their sustainable practices.
At THAIFEX - HOREC Asia, leading exhibitors such as Franke Foodservice Systems from the Philippines, Thai Steward Services, and Epta, known for their commercial refrigeration and services, will showcase their latest energy-efficient solutions tailored for the HoReCa sector.
Eco-friendly Cleaning Solutions
The adoption of green cleaning products is another step towards reducing the environmental impact of cleaning chemicals. HoReCa businesses are transitioning to eco-friendly options, such as bar soaps and sheet laundry detergents, reducing both waste and carbon footprint.
The market for Laundrycare products is growing significantly, driven by the increasing environmental awareness among consumers, coupled with dedicated research and development efforts aimed at creating eco-friendly alternatives to conventional chemical-based products and solutions.
At the forefront of this eco-innovative wave, exhibitors like Achlor Chemical Ltd. will showcase an array of solutions for environmental disinfection and swimming pool water treatment. Their extensive product line, suitable for a variety of applications, spans from industrial water treatment and swimming pool maintenance to diverse household and commercial uses.
The Future of HoReCa: Green and Growing
As these trends continue to gain momentum, it's clear that the HoReCa sector is not just adapting to a changing world; it's leading the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.
At THAIFEX - HOREC Asia, we are embracing and showcasing these innovative practices to the HoReCa sector, so that you can enhance your appeal to the eco-conscious consumer and also set a benchmark for responsible and sustainable business practices.
Visit THAIFEX - HOREC Asia at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, 6-8 March 2024.
MEDIA RESOURCES:
- Visit THAIFEX - HOREC Asia
- Images
- Videos:
- Porpong Shinawatr, NOW End of Waste
- Suphajee Suthumpun, Dusit International
- Tjin Hokkho, Electrolux
- In the HoReCa sector, there is also a rise in sustainability certifications to reflect the industry’s growing commitment to a sustainable and socially conscious future. These programs recognise an enterprise or accommodation’s commitment to sustainable factors. They include:
- Green Key, an eco-label for hotels, hostels, and other accommodations
- Green Globe, and Earth Check, certification programmes that evaluate the environmental impact of hotels, resorts, and other tourism-related businesses
- LEED, which evaluates the environmental impact of buildings, and,
- ISO 14001: which is an international standard that provides guidelines for environmental management
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