Several hotels across the UAE have implemented effective strategies to minimize food waste, resulting in substantial cost savings and environmental benefits. In just six months, these efforts have saved nearly Dh500,000.
St. Regis Abu Dhabi Leads with Winnow System
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi has achieved notable success by introducing the Winnow system to track and reduce food waste in their all-day dining restaurant. According to General Manager Karim Gharbi, the hotel saved Dh480,620 (equivalent to 25 tonnes of food waste) in the first half of 2024. The hotel prepares 1,000 meals daily and partners with the "Stop Wasting Food" initiative across Marriott hotels, focusing on training food handlers in recipe costing and waste reduction techniques.
Rotana's Collaboration with Chef's Eye
Rotana, managing 273 food and beverage outlets across 80 properties in the region, has adopted a data-driven approach to food waste management. Collaborating with Chef's Eye, the group has achieved significant reductions, including a 22% reduction in trim waste and a 63% reduction in food waste from plated meals. Their efforts are part of a broader agreement with the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, Ne'ma, which ensures high-quality food donations to local charities.
UAE Food Bank's Role in Sustainability
The UAE Food Bank plays a crucial role in the region's sustainability efforts. Collaborating with 113 hotels, it sorts surplus food into edible and inedible categories, donating the former to charities and sending the latter for recycling into compost. Over two million meals were diverted from landfills between 2023 and 2024, significantly reducing carbon emissions and producing 100 kilograms of organic fertilizer.
By implementing these comprehensive strategies, UAE hotels are setting a benchmark for sustainability and responsible consumption while contributing positively to the community and environment.
This blog will explore how UAE hotels have managed to save nearly Dh500,000 in just six months by implementing strategies to reduce food waste. It will discuss the sustainable practices that have been adopted, such as portion control, recycling unused food, and using technology to track waste. The post will highlight the positive environmental impact and financial benefits of these measures, showcasing the growing trend of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Readers will also learn how such initiatives align with broader goals for sustainable tourism in the UAE.
