Every year, thousands of tonnes of food are discarded worldwide, with the hospitality industry contributing significantly to this issue. Kitchens often overproduce to meet demand, buffets go largely untouched, and uneaten portions are left behind on guest plates. These practices not only waste valuable resources, such as ingredients, labor, and disposal costs, but also clash with the growing expectations of environmentally conscious travelers.

The good news is that technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are stepping in to tackle this problem. But how do these technologies work? What benefits do they offer? And why should hotels consider incorporating them into their operations?

Key takeaways:

• Waste Drains Profits: Food, labor, and disposal costs pile up. Reducing waste helps protect hotel margins.
• AI Enhances Precision: Tracking and analytics align food production with actual demand, cutting waste.
• Automation Saves Time: Tools like inventory systems, biodigesters, and APIs streamline operations.
• Surplus Finds Purpose: Digital platforms redirect excess food to help communities and reduce waste.
• Green Appeals to Guests: Tech-driven sustainability enhances a hotel’s eco-credentials, attracting conscious travelers.

Understanding food waste in hotels

Globally, hotels are responsible for about one-third of food waste in the hospitality sector. Daily operations in hotel kitchens generate significant food scraps, from vegetable trimmings to spoiled goods. Buffet items are often left uneaten, and guests' plates frequently return with leftover food. This issue escalates during peak seasons, such as holidays or major events, when hotels prepare excessive amounts to accommodate fluctuating guest numbers.

The environmental impact is considerable. When food waste decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. Additionally, the resources—water, energy, and labor—invested in producing, transporting, and preparing this food are wasted.

Economically, food waste in hospitality is estimated to cost over $100 billion annually, including disposal fees, wasted ingredients, and the time staff spend preparing unused meals. For hotels, reducing food waste not only helps the environment but also safeguards profits as operational costs rise. Moreover, an increasing number of travelers actively seek hotels that demonstrate strong sustainability practices, pressuring the industry to adopt greener solutions.

How technology tackles food waste

Artificial Intelligence

For instance, if a hotel sees consistent leftovers from a particular dish, AI can suggest reducing portion sizes or replacing it with a more popular option. Larger hotel chains have already begun using AI to standardize waste reduction strategies across multiple properties, using raw data to develop actionable plans.

Predictive analytics

This approach is especially useful for hotels in remote areas, where managing perishable stock can be challenging due to long supply chains.

Machine learning

The role of APIs

A key feature in this technological shift is the integration of waste data into hotel management systems via an API (Application Programming Interface). APIs connect waste data with existing hotel systems, such as enterprise analytics tools and point-of-sale platforms. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, making the process more efficient and allowing managers to focus on making data-driven decisions in real-time. Whether in boutique hotels or large resorts, API-driven solutions align waste management with broader business operations.

Practical solutions for surplus and unavoidable waste

Even with the best prevention efforts, some food waste is inevitable. However, technology offers solutions to handle it responsibly.

• Biodigesters: These automated machines convert organic waste into grey water, which can be safely repurposed, such as for irrigation. Particularly useful in high-volume operations, like buffets, biodigesters reduce the environmental burden and cut disposal costs by processing waste on-site.
• Food Redistribution: Surplus food doesn’t need to go to waste. Digital platforms allow hotels to connect with local communities and donate excess meals. For example, if a conference is canceled and leftover catering remains, these platforms can direct the food to a nearby food bank, reducing waste and contributing to the local community.

Why hotels should consider these tools

The benefits of using AI and automation for food waste management are clear. Cost savings result from buying less food, lowering disposal fees, and optimizing labor. A hotel that reduces waste by just 20% could save thousands of dollars annually, depending on its size. Furthermore, these technologies help improve sustainability credentials, which are increasingly important to travelers seeking eco-friendly accommodations.

Studies show that guests are more likely to book stays at hotels that demonstrate environmental responsibility, making waste reduction not only an ethical choice but a competitive edge as well.

Industry initiatives like the PLEDGE on Food Waste are helping hotels adopt sustainable practices. Participating hotels have seen waste reductions of up to 40%, benefiting both the environment and their bottom line.

Looking ahead

Food waste is a multifaceted challenge, but technology provides actionable solutions. AI offers precise tracking and predictions, while automation streamlines operations and helps manage unavoidable scraps. APIs integrate waste data seamlessly into existing systems, ensuring that waste management becomes part of a hotel’s broader tech infrastructure.

Additionally, digital platforms help redirect surplus food, benefiting local communities and reducing landfill contributions. These innovations not only lower operational costs but also improve sustainability, aligning with guest expectations for greener practices. By embracing these technologies, hotels can create a more efficient, environmentally responsible, and profitable future.

The original article was published Shiji Group

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