South Africa’s hotel industry is embracing innovation with a growing focus on food sustainability recognising that what happens in hotel kitchens has a direct impact on the environment. As travellers become more environmentally conscious, hotels are rethinking how food is sourced, prepared, and managed.
One of the biggest shifts is towards local and seasonal sourcing. By working with nearby farmers and suppliers, hotels reduce transport emissions, support local economies, and serve fresher, more nutritious food. This farm-to-table approach lowers the carbon footprint of each meal while strengthening regional food systems.
Orion Hotels & Resorts is proud to be part of this movement, actively prioritising sustainability across its properties. By sourcing food locally wherever possible, Orion ensures guests enjoy high-quality, fresh ingredients that reflect the region.
Hotels are also tackling food waste, a major environmental issue. Smarter menu planning, portion control, composting, and food donation programmes significantly reduce waste sent to landfill — cutting methane emissions and conserving the resources used in food production. At Orion Hotels & Resorts, composting initiatives help return organic waste back to the earth, supporting healthier soil and more sustainable food cycles.
Innovation plays a key role, with kitchens using data-driven inventory systems to track usage and minimise spoilage. Many hotels are also reducing reliance on single-use plastics by switching to reusable, biodegradable, or compostable packaging. Orion further enhances its sustainability efforts through on-site vegetable and herb gardens, allowing kitchens to harvest fresh produce directly and reduce unnecessary packaging and transport.
By prioritising sustainable food practices, South African hotels are reducing their environmental impact while delivering better dining experiences. For Orion Hotels & Resorts, sustainability is not a trend but a responsibility — one that starts on the plate and extends far beyond it, protecting natural resources while creating meaningful, future-focused hospitality experiences.
