Sustainability

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Whitsons is committed to taking a leadership role in environmental conservation by being sustainable and supporting local communities. As a food service management company, we strive to conserve and preserve the earth’s resources by recycling, reusing materials, chemicals, and waste.

Whitsons continuously strives to conserve and preserve the Earth’s resources.

ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Whitsons’ commitment to energy conservation is evident through its proactive measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and promoting efficiency across its operations. From the selection of energy-efficient equipment to meticulous maintenance tracking and temperature monitoring, every aspect of the company’s approach is geared towards minimizing waste and optimizing resource utilization. By incorporating innovative technologies like smart lighting and HVAC systems, Whitsons ensures that energy is used judiciously, only when and where it’s needed. Whitsons’ emphasis on sustainability extends beyond energy conservation, with initiatives like low emissions steam boilers and water-saving measures, showcasing a holistic approach towards environmental responsibility in its daily practices.

PLANT FORWARD MENU INNOVATION

Whitsons’ embrace of plant-forward menu innovation signifies a bold step towards healthier and more sustainable eating habits. By prioritizing plant-based options, Whitsons not only caters to the growing demand for nutritious alternatives but also champions environmental conservation. Plant-forward menus offer diverse and flavorful choices that appeal to a wide range of tastes while significantly reducing the environmental footprint associated with traditional meat-centric diets.

VEGGABOLS™

In our partnership with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), we committed to increase healthy, sustainable plant-based menu offerings with our Veggabóls program. Veggabóls is the first 100% plant-based K-12 concept in the country. Our Greenhouse Gas Assessment Menu Planner allows teams to measure the amount of greenhouse gas savings from these sustainable menu items.

MEATLESS MONDAYS

Whitsons has partnered with Meatless Monday to implement the Meatless Monday campaign in our schools, residential programs, and at our corporate headquarters since 2018. Going meatless, even one day a week, helps to reduce our carbon footprint by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, saving on precious resources like fossil fuels and fresh water, and conserving our land.     

VEGGIE TABLES

Our Veggie Tables Signature Concepts offer plant-based meals that contribute to overall Greenhouse Gas Savings. Our Default Vegetable Menus also provide a vegetable-based menu with the option of adding a meat or dairy that defaults to vegan if the meat or dairy is not included.    

Our Greenhouse Gas
savings by the numbers.

Greenhouse gas savings are a crucial component of Whitsons global efforts to combat climate change, protect public health, and promote sustainable economic growth. Achieving these savings requires coordinated efforts across our multiple departments, including production, transportation, procurement, and waste management.

GREENHOUSE
GASES SAVED
REDUCED MILES
DRIVEN
TRASH BAGS SAVED
EQUIVALENT OF TREES PLANTED

ReUsable and ReCycling Programs

The actions we take today will be the legacy we leave future generations. As a concerned corporate citizen, Whitsons continuously strives to conserve and preserve the Earth’s resources. By recycling, reusing, and reducing our global footprint, each Whitsons team member plays a critical role in safeguarding our planet. Our efforts include purchasing locally, using the latest technologies and techniques to conserve resources, and many other grassroot community initiatives.

Share Tables

A great tool for reducing food waste and making unused food available for others. Following USDA guidelines, the idea is to designate a table in the cafeteria where customers can place unopened items for others to enjoy.

Composting

composting potato peels, carrots, and lettuce

Several locations have partnered with local composting organizations to keep food waste out of landfills, working in partnership with their communities and local compost companies.

NexTrex CHALLENGE

Plastic trash for recycling

A year-long plastic bag and film recycling initiative that supports our commitment to sustainability. Recycling collection centers in each community convert plastics into materials for outdoor living products.

Sustainability in the Community 

Whitsons is proud to support other sustainable efforts, events, and initiatives in the community, including our Elmer garden programs and participation in Sustainability Events.

Garden Programs

Greenhouses and onsite gardens bring students, residents and staff closer to the environment while teaching them the benefits of freshly grown fruits and vegetables. Our Elmers Organic Gardens provide an artisanal vertical start-up garden. Indoor greenhouse garden programs are also an option to implement harvest into the meal program or donate to local food rescue organizations. 

Sustainability Events

We support client events that promote sustainability education and practices in the community through our Enhancing Life Program. Onsite Team Members Support Community-Wide Events and drives like Coats for Communities, Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week and Enhancing Life for the Holidays.

THE WHITSONS WAY

As stewards of our organization, we strive to leave this world a better place through all that we do. Our passion for service is deeply intertwined with our commitment to making a difference, not only within our organization, but also throughout the impact we have on our local communities.