Every year, millions of tons of food are lost or wasted around the world. The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, observed annually on September 29th, served as a crucial reminder to reflect on our consumption habits and promote sustainable practices from farm to fork. When food is lost or wasted, all the resources required to produce it - such as water, land, energy, labour and capital - are also wasted.
Through various initiatives, and as a player in the hospitality and leisure industry, we can take action to reduce food waste and make the most of every item of food, for a more environmentally-friendly future. For more than a decade, Rogers Hospitality and the NGO FoodWise have been working together to tackle food waste and raise awareness of the responsible use of resources. Over the years, many innovative initiatives have been launched, reflecting a steadfast commitment.
Our efforts began with food surplus donations from our hotel operations. During the 2022-2023 financial year, we redistributed 976 kg of food from our hotels – equivalent to 168,628 meals! Establishments under Heritage Resorts & Golf and Veranda Resorts eagerly participated in this noble initiative. Reducing food loss and waste is crucial in a world where the number of people suffering from hunger has been increasing steadily since 2014.
In 2023, we launched a Cookbook in collaboration with FoodWise. More than just a collection of recipes, this free resource offers inspiration for making the most of everyday ingredients on an affordable budget. It serves as a comprehensive guide to adopting good preservation practices and reducing food waste. Around 500 copies were redistributed to various schools and NGOs, extending our impact beyond our immediate operations.
Our quick-service business units, including Domino's Pizza, have also joined the cause. The "Slice of Happiness" program, which donates unused pizza dough, exemplifies our lasting commitment to the communities we serve. In the third quarter of 2023 alone, we redistributed 154 kg of pizza dough to three NGOs, providing approximately 616 meals.
The "MEAL Programme," a six-week workshop on malnutrition and food waste, targets children aged 12 to 17. Led by an expert, this program uses fun games, interactive team workshops, and various educational tools to raise awareness among the younger generation about fundamental food-related issues.
In May 2024, we launched a unique experience for guests at our Heritage Resorts & Golf hotels in the south of Mauritius. This initiative allows vacationers to enjoy an immersive moment in a local school, sharing a meal with students while actively participating in lunch preparation. It's an authentic exchange that introduces visitors to Mauritian culinary traditions and fosters meaningful interactions with locals, creating unforgettable memories for both children and participants.
In conclusion, the partnership between FoodWise and Rogers Hospitality embodies a sustainable and committed approach to address food waste and promoting responsible resource consumption. Together, we're working toward a more environmentally friendly future, raising awareness among present and future generations about the importance of preserving our precious planet and its resources.
