Plastic pollution might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture a glamorous night out.

But look closer at your next margarita: that tiny umbrella, the stir stick, the pre-made sour mix pouch – all headed straight for the landfill (or worse, the ocean). However, this doesn’t mean sacrificing your perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. The sustainable cocktail movement is all about innovation and creativity. Think dehydrated fruit slices (think blood orange wheels or apple chips) as vibrant garnishes, bamboo straws that won’t harm sea turtles, and even edible flower ice cubes that add a touch of magic (and reduce water waste!).

The Environmental Cost of Our Cocktails

The impact of single-use plastics in bars is significant. A study by the Harvard Business Review [Harvard Business Review single use plastics ON Harvard Business School hbr.org] estimated that the hospitality industry generates millions of tons of plastic waste annually. This plastic ends up in landfills, oceans, and even our food chain, posing a serious threat to wildlife and ecosystems.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Sipping

But going green goes beyond just ditching the plastic straw. Here’s what sustainable cocktail bars are doing to make a difference:

• Local Sourcing: Partnering with local farms and producers reduces transportation emissions and supports the community. Imagine a menu featuring seasonal cocktails made with fresh, local berries or herbs.
• Minimising Food Waste: Don’t toss those citrus peels! Creative bartenders use leftover ingredients to make house-made syrups, infusions, or dehydrated garnishes.
• Water Efficiency: From capturing ice meltwater for reuse to offering smaller water portions with free refills, bars are finding ways to conserve this precious resource.
• Low-Carbon Cocktails: Some bars are even exploring techniques like using bicycles to power blenders or opting for energy-efficient appliances.

Resources for Sustainable Sipping

Want to get involved in the sustainable cocktail movement? Here are some resources to get you started:

• The Sustainable Restaurant Association: This organisation offers a certification program for bars committed to sustainability. 
• US Bartenders’ Guild: The USBG offers educational resources on sustainable bar practices, including tips on reducing waste and using eco-friendly alternatives. 

Raising a Glass to a Greener Future

The sustainable cocktail movement is more than just a fad – it’s a way to ensure a thriving future for our planet and our favourite libations. So the next time you head out for a night on the town, seek out bars that are shaking things up with sustainability in mind. Raise a glass (made of recycled glass, of course!) to delicious drinks, a healthy planet, and the coolest cocktail trend around.

Remember, every sip you take can make a difference!

To find more about sustainability in the hospitality industry, click HERE.