For those of us who have been paying attention, the recent Hurricane Helene is yet another example of the growing impacts of climate change. But for many, this unexpected mega-storm may be the moment that connects the dots. Or perhaps it's the record-breaking intensity of Hurricane Milton, moving through the Gulf of Mexico, bringing fear, forcing evacuations and wreaking havoc right on the heels of Helene.
Climate change is no longer happening in far-off places; it’s here, affecting us in ways many couldn’t have anticipated.
From hurricanes to wildfires, we’re seeing firsthand how our world is transforming, and people and businesses can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines.
The time to act has long passed; it’s now about how quickly we can implement meaningful solutions.
At New York Climate Week, the message from experts was resoundingly clear: the time for action is now. But despite this urgent call, I still hear from many businesses that aren't sure whether they should act or what steps to take. The uncertainty, the overwhelm, the hesitation—these are barriers we must overcome.
A Reluctance to Act: The Hesitation of Businesses
I understand the hesitation. Sustainability can seem daunting, with its complexities, competing priorities, and wide-ranging impacts. For foodservice organizations already juggling supply chains, cost pressures, and operational demands, sustainability can feel like another challenge. But sustainability isn’t separate from business—it’s as integral as HR, finance, or operations. Doing nothing is the riskiest option of all. Climate change impacts every facet of our industry, and by waiting, we’re only exacerbating future challenges. Sustainability must be embedded in every decision we make, across every department.
What I'm Doing in Response
To help cut through the noise, I’ve made it my mission to provide businesses with simple, concrete steps they can take to become more sustainable. Each week, I’ve been releasing 10 actionable steps for foodservice and restaurants to take in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs offer a structured framework for acting across a range of environmental and social issues—whether it's reducing food waste, adopting clean energy, or promoting responsible sourcing. These weekly steps make the global SDGs more approachable for foodservice organizations, offering clear, digestible actions they can start implementing today.
Pulling Together Educational Resources
Education is key, and that’s why I’m not just releasing actions—I’m also bringing together industry leaders and experts to share their knowledge through educational webinars. These webinars aim to provide clarity and guidance to foodservice organizations unsure of where to begin. We explore issues like food waste, energy efficiency, and sustainable sourcing, always focusing on practical, actionable steps businesses can take.
RESOURCES: Publications, webinars & podcasts
See below a series of publications, webinars and podcasts that will help you on your journey to a sustainable future:
Cradle to Cradle: The Future of Food Waste
You can watch or listen to the recording here, use this password to access: GA0=eNYG
The Future of University Foodservice and Sustainability: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Innovation
In this session, university foodservice professionals will share their perspectives on the latest trends and challenges in creating sustainable dining experiences.
We’ll dive into practical strategies for achieving sustainability goals, spotlight cutting-edge technologies that are transforming operations, and discuss how student engagement can drive meaningful change.
Whether you're a part of a university administration, a foodservice provider, or a sustainability advocate, this webinar will provide actionable insights and a roadmap for the future.
Upcycled Foods: Transforming Foodservice with Sustainable Solutions
Join us for an insightful webinar on the future of upcycled foods in the foodservice industry.
With an increasing demand for sustainability, innovative companies leading the way by creating high-volume, foodservice-friendly products from ingredients that would otherwise go to waste.
In this session, you’ll learn how upcycled foods can reduce food waste, lower costs, and appeal to your customers. Explore real-world examples, get inspired by successful implementations, and discover how your foodservice operation can contribute to a more sustainable future by incorporating upcycled foods into your menu.
Podcast: Going Zero
In addition to webinars and actionable steps, I co-host the Going Zero podcast, a platform aimed at educating businesses about sustainability. On the podcast, we explore practical solutions for reducing environmental impact and share insights from industry leaders and experts across various sectors. Whether we’re discussing electrification, food waste, or strategies for achieving net-zero, Going Zero is designed to help businesses take real steps toward sustainability.
I’ve provided you with actions and education, but now it’s up to you to decide what works best for your business. Whether it’s reducing waste, working within your supply chain or considering renewable energy, the key is to start. Sustainability is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but there are concrete steps everyone can take:
A Call to Action: It’s Time to Do Something
Here’s the bottom line: Do something. Whether you’re implementing one of the 10 actions I release each week, attending a webinar, or starting a conversation with your team, the most important thing is to start. Sustainability is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity, both for the survival of our planet and for the future of your business.
The impact of climate change is unavoidable. Whether it’s the unexpected devastation of Hurricane Helene or the creeping effects of rising temperatures on global food supplies, we are all touched by it in some way.
For foodservice leaders, the time to act is now. By embracing sustainability, you are not only contributing to the greater good but also positioning your business as a leader in a changing marketplace.
Let’s move beyond talk and act.
Follow me on LinkedIn for weekly actions and get notifications of future webinars.
Listen to the Going Zero podcast.
Review our Foodservice Sustainability Strategy & Transformation offer to learn more how we can help you with a project or transformation.
Schedule a discovery call with me and let’s talk about what you are trying to achieve.
With 4xi, you gain an entire team dedicated to supporting your sustainability transformation. Embrace sustainability as an integral part of your business ethos and operations, and watch it transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Explore how 4xi Global Consulting can help your foodservice business lead the way in sustainability with a simplified, impactful approach.
Together, we can build a better, and brighter future, together!
So, let's get started now. Sustainability Simplified©
CHRISTY COOK
Christy is 4xi's Chief Sustainability Officer in Residence is the lead of Sustainability Simplified©. Christy specializes in ESG Advisory, Strategies, Sustainability Road Maps, Measurement, Systems, and Reporting.
To learn more about Sustainability Simplified© and 4xi visit our website: who we are, what we do, and how we inspire a brighter future, together: www.4xiconsulting.com
4xi Global Consulting & Solutions is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure.
We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success.
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