Editor's Note: A previous version of this story has been updated to clarify that Mars Inc. acquired the global distribution rights of Alterra in 2010.
A recent survey by the National Restaurant Association found that 65 percent of restaurateurs have a recycling program in place. Alterra Coffee Roasters of Milwaukee, Wis., is especially committed to sustainability.
The 13-unit company, founded in 1993 and whose global distribution rights were acquired by Mars Inc. in 2010, has been recognized by Environmental Protection Agency for its efforts in recycling and sourcing sustainable power. The company is confident that it is nearing its zero-waste goal.
“How much are you paying to have garbage shipped out of your facilities?” asked Bill Suskey, manager of café operations and quality at Alterra Coffee, in an interview with Nation’s Restaurant News. “Most recycling now is free for pick-up because they are becoming profitable with recycling. But garbage is not.”
Hear more of Suskey’s thoughts on how to eliminate waste, including composting and replacing paper plateware with ceramics.
See images of Alterra’s unit in Milwaukee.
Contact Ron Ruggless at [email protected].
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