4 Fast Food Joints of the US That Are Reducing Their Carbon Footprint

 

Bistro serving food chains like net-zero restaurants have won praise for being active responses to the global environmental challenge. However, many people assert that the benefits of their climate solutions are overstated and their meaninglessness (also known as greenwashing).

 

So, we had to ask, which fast food restaurants are attempting to reduce their environmental impact?

 

Many brands such as Starbucks are the greatest fast food restaurants that are devoted to reducing their environmental impact, just like influential celebrities. Businesses like Wendy’s and Chipotle Mexican Grill are committed to using locally farmed food and keeping the strictest standards for animals.

 

Find out which fast food restaurants are breaking the pattern and fighting for environmental stability, as well as what you can do to lessen your carbon impact while still going out to eat fast food.

 

 

Starbucks

 

“Spread Great Coffee and Contribute to a Greener World”

 

Have you seen more non-dairy espresso options lately? Since 1997, Starbucks has included soymilk on its menu. In the past 25 years, the company has expanded its offering to include coconut, almond, oat milk, and even a plant-based whipped cream. This has coincided with its efforts to find more ethical dairy.

 

Bring your cup to the company’s long-running BYOC (bring your cup) campaign, which has now been extended to the drive-thru and mobile orders as part of an effort to reduce the amount of garbage sent to landfills by half by 2030.

 

McDonald’s

 

“Building Climate Resilience and Preserving Nature at McDonald’s”

 

In 2018, McDonald’s became the first significant fast food corporation to announce science-based goals for reducing their emissions as well as emissions in their supply chain.

 

One of the top three sources of the total carbon footprint of their supply chain is McDonald’s, which is one of the largest consumers of beef in the world.

 

To rescue the earth, you don’t need to switch to a McPlant, though. By the end of 2020, 99.4% of the beef purchased by McDonald’s restaurants came from supply chains that did not involve deforestation.

 

Chipotle Mexican Grill

 

“We Do Care About Local”

 

Thanks to its creative plant-based menu, Chipotle Mexican Grill has won the VegOut Award for Best Vegan-Friendly Fast Food for many years. Additionally, Chipotle Mexican Grill is dedicated to buying regional food from regional producers. However, they still need to improve their waste reduction efforts.

 

By 2030, Chipotle Mexican Grill wants to cut its operating greenhouse gas emissions by 50%. This goal is supported by science. A reduction goal for their supply chain emissions, which are ten times higher than those of restaurants, is still lacking.

 

For instance, 31% of Chipotle locations participated in compost programs in 2021, and 125 restaurants are expected to offer them by the end of 2022.

 

Domino’s

 

“Bringing People Better Futures Through Delicious Food”

 

Domino’s has agreed to create environmental sustainability goals, although it is still unclear what those goals would be. However, the paper used in their pizza boxes is 100% recyclable and originates from either recycled materials or ethically managed forests.

 

 

What Steps Can You Take To Lessen Your Environmental Impact When Eating Out?

 

Many people enjoy dining out, but how can you continue to practice environmental responsibility? Here are some pointers:

 

• Make the correct inquiries

Don’t be afraid to question your waitress about where the restaurant gets its supplies or how it handles food waste. You can always ask a manager for the information if your server is unaware. As an alternative, you can review their online menu (if they have one). For example:

 

1. Do they promote the use of regional ingredients?
2. Do they serve different foods throughout the year
3. Do they stick to the same menu?

 

• Reduce Food Waste

If the portions are substantial, think about dividing a dinner between two or more individuals to reduce food waste. You can also request a doggy bag to take the leftovers home and consume them later. Bring your bag or reusable container when ordering takeout and refuse plastic cutlery and extra napkins.

 

• Eat more plants

Considering that the global cattle business is one of the largest causes of climate change, eating more greens is probably the best thing we can do to lessen our carbon footprint. An estimated 6 million hectares of forest are felled each year to make way for agricultural development.