Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is setting a new benchmark in sustainable luxury hospitality with a groundbreaking initiative to install Winnow’s AI-driven food waste technology across its 40 hotels worldwide by the end of 2025. This move, announced on the United Nations’ World Environment Day, underscores the Group’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence.
Impressive Results from Pilot Programmes
The decision to expand Winnow’s technology follows a successful six-month pilot in four of the Group’s prestigious hotels: Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong; Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London; Mandarin Oriental, Miami; and Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Dubai. During this period, these hotels achieved an impressive 36% reduction in food waste, showcasing the potential of AI in driving significant environmental impact.
Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals
Food waste contributes up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and typically, 5-15% of food purchased by kitchens ends up wasted. Mandarin Oriental’s initiative aims to address this issue head-on, contributing to the Group’s broader goal of reducing waste intensity by 50% by 2030. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, which seeks to halve global per capita food waste by the same year.
Data-Driven Decisions for a Greener Future
Winnow’s technology provides detailed data that empowers hotel teams to make informed decisions, positively impacting both the environment and operational costs. Kitchens can expect to save between 2-8% on food costs through more efficient waste management. These efforts build on existing initiatives, such as staff education campaigns, revamped buffet operations, food donation programs, and innovative composting schemes.
Culinary Excellence Meets Sustainability
With 28 Michelin Stars, including the Michelin Green-star recognition at Amber, the Group’s signature French fine-dining restaurant at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, Mandarin Oriental is uniquely positioned to champion the cause of food waste reduction. The insights provided by Winnow’s data will enable chefs to craft zero-waste menus and recipes, further promoting sustainability in fine dining.
Leadership in Action
Torsten van Dullemen, Group Director of Sustainability and Area Vice President Operations, stated, “Our commitment to sustainability goes hand in hand with our promise to deliver exceptional guest experiences. The integration of Winnow’s technology across our global portfolio is a bold step towards reducing our ecological impact and reinforcing our position as an industry leader.”
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
Marc Zornes, CEO & Co-founder of Winnow, added, “Mandarin Oriental is at the forefront of sustainability in luxury hospitality. Our collaboration is already demonstrating the powerful impact of technology and data in reducing food waste. We’re honoured to support Mandarin Oriental in their ambitious goals, and together, we’re not only setting new industry standards but also making a tangible difference for our planet.”
Building on Success
The successful pilot programmes at Mandarin Oriental hotels in Miami, Dubai, London, and Hong Kong resulted in annualized net savings of $207,000, 66 tonnes of food waste, and 289 tonnes in CO2e emissions. Building on this success, the Group will roll out Winnow’s technology to all its hotels by the end of 2025, setting a new standard in luxury hospitality.
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