Athens – Attica Hoteliers Join Collective Effort to Reduce Food Waste

Hoteliers in Athens and Attica joined Greek non-profit organization Boroume and inspection and certification services provider TÜV AUSTRIA Hellas to raise awareness about ways hotels can reduce food waste with a special online event this week.

The event was held as part of the Athens-Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association’s (EXAAA) corporate social responsibility (CSR) program and its participation in the Food Saving Alliance of Greece. The aim was to inform hoteliers about food waste management, the legal framework, acquiring tourism certification for effective food waste management as well as private certification initiatives, and best practices in hospitality concerning food waste. Participants also had the chance to discuss concerns, express ideas, and ask questions.

“The association aspires strengthen the message to hotels and society for the prevention of food waste, the reduction of biological waste, and the preservation & supply of food,” said EXAAA President Labrini Karanasiou-Zoulovits.

Athens – Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association President Lambrini Karanasiou-Zoulovits. Photo source: Athens Municipality.

She went on to add that both hoteliers and hotel employees stand to gain from the awareness-raising event and underlined the importance of sharing best practices, developing synergies with the appropriate specialized agencies, and ensuring the highest possible participation of all hoteliers in dealing with the problem.

Among others, Dia Chorafa, coordinator at the Food Saving Alliance of Greece, went on to outline the obligations as foreseen in the legal framework which include providing data on food waste produced and the utilization of surpluses (prevention). She added that the bill also provides incentives for food donations.

“In addition to the legal obligations, members of the Alliance undertake important initiatives and actions. We welcome EXAAA to the Alliance and the commitment to contribute to the collective effort to reduce food waste in Greece,” she said.