Happy Earth Day 2016! The IFYA believes that frozen yogurt shops should adopt Earth-friendly business practices. In fact, one of the key components to our Swirl of Honor quality seal program measures the eco-friendliness of shops that apply to the program. Frozen yogurt stores have many opportunities to adopt practices that show concern for the environment. Let’s look at a few of these:
Energy efficient restaurant equipment
Soft serve machines and refrigerators require a great deal of electricity, so it’s important to choose energy efficient models. When you look for and purchase energy efficient soft serve machines and refrigerators, you also reduce your energy bill. Water cooled frozen yogurt machines that use recycled water reduce your air conditioning bill compared to air cooled units. And because the water is recycled, less water is used. With air cooled units, air conditioning helps to dissipate the heat generated from the compressor, motor and condenser. Solar panels help generate electricity and reduce energy use. Look for the Energy Star seal and compare the energy use of different models.
Recycled decor
Some environmentally conscious froyo shops even use recycled materials in their design elements such as furniture and counters made with recycled cardboard or reclaimed wood furnishings. Eco-friendly paints contain no toxic materials.
Recycled or compostable packaging
Foodservice businesses generate lots of waste. To minimize the impact of that waste, use recycled or compostable products, such as cups, napkins, spoons and straws. Recycle and compost wherever possible. Better yet, offer a reusable frozen yogurt cup and provide a discount for your customers who reuse it at your shop.
Earth friendly cleaning and conservation
Being eco-conscious is about more than using eco-friendly products and materials. It’s also about conservation. Eco-friendly frozen yogurt shops can use non-toxic cleaning supplies and find other ways to reduce energy consumption (e.g., using energy efficient light bulbs, reducing water use with eco-friendly toilets).
Non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning supplies are healthier for your employees, your customers and the planet.
Buy locally
Buying local, seasonal fruit from farmers that practice sustainable farming also is an Earth-friendly practice. Fair trade products also help support a better tomorrow.
Support environmental causes
Froyo shops can also support environmental causes by donating a portion of their profits or having fundraisers for eco-focused non-profits.
