Six Ways Pantry Fuel Promotes Sustainability

Sustainability is defined as “meeting the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”. As natural resources become more and more depleted, sustainable business practices have become increasingly important for both companies and consumers. Pantry Fuel and many small businesses alike have taken huge steps to weave sustainability into every fiber of their operation. Here’s six ways Pantry Fuel operates sustainably:

1. Recycling. Paper, plastic, cardboard, and aluminum cans are all set aside during production to be taken out to on-site recycling bins. Sustainable waste management is one of the easiest ways to conserve energy, reduce air and water pollution, reduce greenhouse gasses, and conserve natural resources
2. Reusable Insulated Bags. For those who don’t know, you can purchase reusable Pantry Fuel-branded insulated bags for just $10 to be delivered with your weekly order. Not only do these bags reduce the need for single-use plastic bags, but they also offer additional benefits such as insulation to keep your meals cold for longer (they also make the perfect reusable grocery bag for all your frozen or refrigerated items!).
3. Eco-Friendly Plastic Bags. Customers who don’t choose to purchase reusable bags receive their meals in a more sustainable version of the traditional single-use grocery bag. Eco Hippo brand plastic bags are made from at least 10% recycled material, are reusable, and are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifetime. Compared to paper bags, Eco Hippo bags require 91% less energy to recycle, generate 30% less solid waste, and 70% less greenhouse gas emissions. 
4. Recyclable Meal Containers. Pantry Fuel meals are delivered to customers in microwave-safe, recyclable, and reusable containers. Many customers choose to wash and reuse these containers for future leftovers and lunches. Plus, they make your fridge look like you’re a meal-prep professional!
5. Sustainable Menus. In case you didn’t notice, Pantry Fuel features one fully vegetarian menu item each week, and every entrée can be modified to fit vegetarian and/or vegan lifestyles. Reducing consumption of animal products and red meat by even small amounts can make a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental pollutants. Highlighting in-season produce and featuring plenty of plant-based ingredients also promotes sustainable and healthful eating.
6. Minimal Carbon Emissions at Delivery. Pantry Fuel meals are delivered in optimized routes to minimize drive time and carbon emissions. Since switching to an all-delivery model versus having some customers pick their meals up on-site, overall drive time and carbon emissions are reduced among the Spokane community by having two drivers versus each individual customer transporting meals. 

1. Gregoire M. Foodservice Organizations: A Managerial and Systems Approach. 9th ed.