How to Make Restaurants More Sustainable

Today’s diners are more conscious than ever about where they eat and the environmental impact their choices make. More customers are choosing to support restaurants that reduce waste, use sustainable materials, and take visible steps toward being an eco-friendly restaurant. While the idea of going green may seem daunting, even small changes can create meaningful results for both your business and the planet.

According to a study by Deliverect:

• 66% of consumers believe it’s important that restaurants are transparent about how they limit food waste.
• 51% said seeing large amounts of food waste frustrates them.
• 73% value accurate portion sizes to avoid excess waste.
• 54% prefer restaurants that reduce unnecessary packaging in delivery orders.
• 56% said they favor restaurants that use eco-friendly restaurant products and avoid single-use plastics.

These insights make it clear that sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s an expectation. Here are five effective ways to make your restaurant more eco-friendly.

1. Switch to Sustainable Takeout Solutions  

Replacing plastic packaging with sustainable materials is one of the easiest and most visible steps toward becoming an eco-friendly restaurant. Molded pulp containers, compostable utensils, and biodegradable bags are excellent alternatives to plastic and show customers that you’re committed to positive change. These swaps not only reduce landfill waste but can also become a point of pride for your brand.

2. Utilize Technology to Reduce Waste  

Cutting down on paper use is another impactful way to make your restaurant more sustainable. Traditional receipt paper and printed menus contribute significantly to waste. With LINGA Go, guests can order, pay, and tip right from their table—no printed receipts required. This system also allows diners to receive digital receipts by email, reducing clutter and costs while improving table turnover and staff efficiency.

QR code menus are another simple yet effective solution. By switching to digital menus, restaurants can instantly update items and prices without reprinting materials. This not only saves paper but also creates a smoother, more flexible dining experience for guests.

3. Buy Local and in Bulk  

According to research, meals in the United States travel an average of 1,500 miles from farm to plate. By sourcing ingredients locally, restaurants can reduce their carbon footprint and enjoy fresher, higher-quality produce. Buying local also strengthens relationships with nearby farmers and suppliers, supporting your community while minimizing transportation waste.

Restaurantware, a leader in sustainable restaurant supplies, emphasizes that “keeping ingredient shopping local minimizes waste and reduces spoilage caused by long travel times.” When you buy locally in bulk, you’re not just saving money—you’re improving product freshness and supporting an ecosystem of sustainability.

4. Streamline Deliveries  

Food delivery can be both a business necessity and a major source of emissions. With LINGA Driver, restaurants can consolidate delivery routes, reduce unnecessary mileage, and optimize driver directions. This solution cuts down on fuel consumption, improves delivery times, and helps reduce your restaurant’s overall carbon footprint. By making delivery logistics more efficient, you can save money and make your operation greener at the same time.

5. Grow Your Own Herbs  

If you’re wondering how to make restaurants more sustainable, growing your own herbs is an excellent starting point. It’s a small but powerful step toward self-sufficiency and freshness. Some restaurants, like Segev Kitchen Garden, have fully embraced this approach, designing their spaces like greenhouses with herbs hanging from ceilings and decorating tables. This not only enhances the dining atmosphere but also ensures every dish is made with fresh, home-grown ingredients.

Taking the Next Step Toward Sustainability  

Creating an eco-friendly restaurant doesn’t require massive changes overnight. By adopting technology like LINGA GO and LINGA Driver, switching to eco-friendly restaurant products, and sourcing local ingredients, you can make meaningful progress toward sustainability while attracting more conscious diners.

Ready to make your restaurant greener? Discover how LINGA’s solutions can help you cut waste, save money, and elevate your eco-friendly operations today.