Quantumrun

IMAGE CREDIT:

iStock

Fast food reusable tableware: Eco eats

Fast food chains are swapping disposables for reusables, reshaping how we dine while cutting down on waste.

Author:
Author name
Quantumrun Foresight
August 2, 2024

Insight summary

Fast food chains are adopting reusable tableware to address environmental concerns and comply with new regulations to reduce packaging waste. This shift may increase costs initially but could result in long-term savings and a positive brand image for businesses. Governments may need to support this transition with regulations and infrastructure improvements to promote sustainability and reduce waste.

Fast food reusable tableware context

Fast food chains are increasingly adopting reusable tableware as a sustainable alternative to single-use packaging. This trend is driven by growing environmental concerns and legislative actions to reduce packaging waste. For instance, since January 2023, France has required fast-food restaurants to serve on-site diners using reusable plastic containers instead of disposable ones.

In response to these regulatory changes, McDonald's France has collaborated with design studios to develop reusable tableware. Paris-based Eliumstudio spent two years designing a range of reusable items, including containers for French fries, salads, sauces, and drink cups. These products are made from Tritan, a BPA (bisphenol A)- free plastic resin chosen for its durability and ability to preserve the taste quality of food. The design process involved creating hundreds of prototypes to ensure the tableware met both aesthetic and functional standards.

However, the move towards reusable tableware is not without challenges. In Lille, fast food chains like Big Fernand have reported issues with customers taking reusable items home or discarding them out of habit, leading to increased costs and operational burdens. Despite these teething problems, many industry players believe consumer behavior will adapt over time. The European Union (EU) is also considering similar legislation to that of France, facing opposition from the paper packaging industry. Nonetheless, environmental advocates argue that such measures are crucial for achieving circular economy goals and significantly reducing packaging waste across Europe.

Disruptive impact

Consumers may develop a greater sense of responsibility regarding waste management as they adjust to returning reusable items instead of disposing of single-use packaging. This trend could also increase demand for eco-friendly products in other areas of their lives, promoting sustainable living practices. However, individuals might experience an increase in pricing as companies invest in durable, reusable tableware and the infrastructure to support it.

Companies may need to invest in new equipment, such as dishwashers, and train staff to efficiently manage the return and cleaning of reusable items. However, over time, this investment could result in cost savings by reducing the need for disposable packaging and minimizing waste management expenses. Additionally, businesses that adopt sustainable practices may enhance their brand image, attract environmentally conscious customers.

Governments may need to implement and enforce regulations to support the transition to reusable tableware, including setting standards for reusable products and providing incentives for businesses to adopt them. Policymakers might also need to address the infrastructure required for the widespread use of reusable tableware, such as improving waste collection and recycling systems. Governments could also collaborate to create unified regulations that promote sustainability across borders, reducing the environmental impact of single-use packaging globally.

Implications of fast food reusable tableware

Wider implications of fast food reusable tableware may include:

A greater push towards developing and implementing circular economy principles, leading to more sustainable consumption and production patterns.

Increased investment in research and development for durable, eco-friendly materials, driving technological advancements in material science.

The rise of new business models centered around renting and returning reusable items, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Fast food chains investing in washing and sanitation infrastructure, potentially leading to job creation in maintenance and operations.

Potential short-term increase in operational costs for businesses as they transition, which may be offset by long-term savings from reduced waste management expenses.

Development of public awareness campaigns by governments and nonprofits to educate consumers about the benefits of reusable tableware.

Increased scrutiny and regulation of the fast food industry’s environmental practices, pushing companies towards more transparent and sustainable operations.