The local environment is benefiting from a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between McDonald’s Australia and Newcastle City Council, a first for Australia.
This has resulted in a significant reduction in the fast food chain’s use of water and electricity, and in waste generated. Council’s Manager Environmental and Health Services, Jock Graham said that the MOU contains a number of strategies involving energy conservation, waste reduction, litter abatement, water conservation, store design and public education. “This ensures sustainability initiatives are transformed into deliverable outcomes,” he said.
Lord Mayor John Tate said there are very positive signs that the decisions made in the MOU are proving good for business and good for the environment. “Sustainability is not just about the environment,” he said. “It is also about economic viability and social equity, and we believe McDonald’s will be able to show others in the food industry you can save money by reducing energy, water wastage and solid waste.”
The environmental initiative between McDonalds Australia and the City of Newcastle ensures that Newcastle will become the national trial location for a recycled cardboard cup and food container to replace polystyrene. The MOU is also about new store designs and waste audit protocols that can be used nationally enhancing the food industry’s environmental performance.
For further information contact Jock Graham, telephone (02) 4974 2521
