HMSHost Corp. has unveiled a list of sustainable practices under way throughout the company.
Linda Dunn, vice president of supply chain and analysis, showcased the practices during the Airports Going Green Conference in Chicago, Ill.
Using a yearlong review of operations, Dunn described how the company manages and tracks its sustainability efforts in three channels under the startsomewhere® platform. They are measured at the end of each year.
“Startsomewhere® means we will work with our airport and motorway partners,
our employees and our customers to be conscious of the difference we can make
in these practices,” she said. “Every effort to be more sustainable in our business builds a better future.”
Under the first area of focus, Reduce Environmental Impact, initiatives include diversion of waste from landfills, conservation of electricity and water, and use of “better-for-the-environment” materials.
One example in practice of this concept include the HMSHost team at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) diverting waste by recycling plastic milk containers. Nine Starbucks stores at ATL use approximately 2,600 gallons of milk each week, and twice a day, the containers are collected and processed in a trash compactor specially sourced by HMSHost; from there, the compacted bales go to a recycling plant nearby and are used to make bottles for non-food items, plastic lumber, floor tiles and recycling bins.
The second area of focus, Provide Food and Beverage Options that Address Nutritional Wellness, means travelers are finding healthier selections at HMSHost concepts, with menus that are lower in fat or sodium. Many offer the option of substituting steamed vegetables and/or grapes in place of fries.
One concept, Ciao Gourmet, was developed with HMSHost’s parent company, Autogrill, to offer gourmet food that is portable. Menu options include a Fruit & Nut Breakfast Wrap, natural and organic snacks, and Naked® Juice. Most of the produce used is locally sourced when available in season.
Finally, the third area of focus, Partner with the Communities We Serve to Build a Better Future, has always been part of the company’s practice. Each year, it contributes to more than 225 organizations including local food banks, children’s hospitals and the USO. Indirect, direct and in-kind donations totaled more than $1.6M last year and reached more than 100 communities near the company’s operations.
“We operate in high consumer traffic venues, so it is important to look at smarter uses of our resources and how we can contribute as a neighbor with a vested interest in the communities we serve,” Dunn said.
