Iberostar Hotels and Resorts has successfully reduced food waste by 28% in 48 of its hotels through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The hotel group partnered with Winnow Solutions in September 2022 as part of its Wave of Change sustainability program. The objective was to save approximately 1,600 tons of food waste per year, equivalent to 5.3 million meals.
The implementation of Winnow Vision AI technology played a crucial role in accomplishing this remarkable reduction in food waste. The technology utilizes intelligent cameras, smart scales, and meters to analyze ingredients used during food preparation. By monitoring and assessing which food items are most wasted and in what quantities, the system provides valuable insights for the hotels to optimize their practices.
Currently, the AI technology is installed in 48 Iberostar hotels, but the plan is to implement it globally across all of their properties. The hotels equipped with Winnow technology have already saved an impressive 735,000 meals from going to waste during the first half of this year alone. Not only does this directly combat food waste, but it also corresponds to a reduction of approximately 1,264 tons of CO2 emissions.
The hotel group estimates that they will save a total of 1.5 million meals this year, resulting in a reduction of 2,500 tons of CO2 emissions. These figures reflect Iberostar’s commitment to sustainability and align with their ambitious goal of becoming waste-free by 2025 and carbon neutral by 2030.
Megan Morikawa, Iberostar’s global sustainability director, expressed pride in the partnership with Winnow, emphasizing the program’s ability to create tangible change within the hotel industry. Iberostar’s efforts, combined with the dedication of their chefs, exemplify their leadership in establishing a sustainable travel industry.
Iberostar is not alone in addressing food waste through innovative solutions. Other hotel chains, including Accor, IHG Hotels and Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group, have also adopted Winnow’s technology or implemented alternative strategies to tackle food waste and promote sustainability.
Through these collective efforts, the hospitality industry is taking significant strides towards creating a waste-free future and reducing its carbon footprint. The implementation of AI technology provides invaluable data and insights for decision-making, helping hotels optimize their operations and minimize waste.
As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, initiatives like Iberostar’s partnership with Winnow serve as a shining example of how technological advancements can drive positive change. By working together, the hotel industry can make a substantial impact in combating food waste, reducing emissions, and advancing sustainability.
