green news

Minneapolis — Restaurant Technologies recycled over 363 million pounds of used cooking oil in 2024, exceeding its own record of 314 million pounds set in 2023 by over 15%.  Restaurant Technologies partners with renewable energy partners, such as Chevron Renewable Energy Group and Phillips 66, to convert used cooking oil (UCO) into renewable diesel or biodiesel for vehicles to use on the road. At Sheetz, a regional convenience store located in seven states, Restaurant Technologies and Sheetz have created a closed loop economy where fresh oil is delivered, used, then …

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Seattle — As of the end of 2024, Starbucks had verified more than 9,000 stores for meeting robust standards, as verified by an outside auditor, across eight environmental impact areas such as energy efficiency, water stewardship and waste diversion. These measures — taking steps toward a more sustainable build, design and operations — are planned to be implemented across 10,000 stores in 2025. Of the 9,000 stores, Starbucks is celebrating five stores for excelling in innovation, environmental impact, community connection, inspiration, and customer and partner experience. These stores reflect Starbucks …

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San Diego — In mid-March, Petco launched its first-ever national trade-in and recycling event in partnership with TerraCycle, an international leader in sustainability solutions, including giving hard-to-recycle materials a new life. In honor of Global Recycling Day on March 18 and just in time for annual spring cleaning, Petco is helping pet parents recycle their dogs’ old collars, leashes and harnesses for an upgrade and a safer, more comfortable fit. For a limited time, pet parents can bring old dog collars, leashes or harnesses into Petco locations nationwide for responsible …

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Gilbert, Ariz. — Mercy Center, a highly anticipated 11-acre mixed-use development in Gilbert, Ariz., is now open. Developed and leased by Diversified Partners, the new community hub includes Arizona’s largest Starbucks — and the largest solar-powered Starbucks in the country. The two-story design redefines eco-conscious, customer-centric retail. This first-of-its-kind Starbucks location features a rooftop solar array supplying 80% to 100% of the store’s energy needs. Excess power is fed back into the grid to support nearby homes. Designed for efficiency and accessibility, the flagship Starbucks includes a 23-car drive-thru, designated …

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West Concord, Mass. — Divert, Inc., a circular economy company on a mission to prevent food from being wasted, has appointed Brad Lukow to its executive leadership team as chief financial officer. Lukow brings more than 30 years of finance and capital markets experience, with the majority of his career focused on the consumer retail sector. David Eichinger, Divert’s CFO since 2022, will step away from the company to pursue other opportunities outside the business. “Brad’s proven leadership in finance, particularly in the retail industry, makes him an ideal fit …

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— Interview With Chandra Balter — R&R: Where are you based and how long has the company been in business? Chandra Balter: Rubicon is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and I’m personally based in Toms River, New Jersey. The company has been in business for 16 years. R&R: What is your name and title, and how long have you been with the company? Balter: I’m Chandra Balter, strategic account executive, and I have been with Rubicon for over 11 years. For most of that time, I served as a key account …

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Richardson, Texas — ENTOUCH, a leading energy management solutions provider for multisite operators, has selected 24 Hour Fitness as the recipient of the ENTOUCH 2023 Sustainability Award. This award recognizes companies that have significantly contributed to sustainability and energy efficiency. “We are proud to recognize 24 Hour Fitness for their commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency,” says Trey Hernandez, vice president of customer success for ENTOUCH. “Their dedication to reducing their environmental impact is an example for other companies to follow. We are proud to do our part in supporting …

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— By Frenchie Audette — Why tackling wasted food is good for sustainability — and good for business. Every year, the foodservice industry contributes a staggering amount of waste to U.S. landfills. Consumer-facing businesses are responsible for 20% of all wasted food, with restaurants accounting for nearly half of that. That’s almost 9 tons of food waste annually. And 70% of that waste comes from plate waste — what’s left uneaten on customers’ plates. This all points to the unique challenge that the foodservice industry faces when dealing with wasted …

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New York City — Following 15 years of tremendous growth, LILYSILK, the world’s leading silk brand, has opened its highly-anticipated store location in the Meatpacking District in New York City. The doors are now open to the public at 654 Hudson St. LILYSILK’s new store location gives its dedicated consumers a way to experience the brand in real life. Matching the brand’s clean aesthetic, this stunning new location has an elevated, clean interior with green and white accents and serves as a community hub for fans of the brand to …

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Orlando, Fla. — Filta Environmental Kitchen Solutions, a leader in environmentally responsible commercial kitchen services, had a record-breaking year in 2024. The company reached a significant milestone by recycling over 1 billion pounds of used cooking oil into biodiesel fuel, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and innovation. “Reaching the milestone of recycling a billion pounds is both a phenomenal achievement and a testament to our commitment to sustainability,” says John Michals, chief operating officer. “This is a moment to celebrate, but also to ask ourselves, ‘What’s next? When do we …

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