A big step in our commitment to the environment

At Arcos Dorados, we are continuing to find new ways to increasingly source sustainable raw materials and processes so that we can have a positive impact on our environment.

In November 2019 we took an unprecedented step in our mission to protect our planet by partnering with UBQ, an Israeli company whose purpose is to reduce carbon emissions by turning daily waste into organic products.

The revolutionary process carried out by this company consists of converting all kinds of unclassified waste, such as food, dirty cardboard, paper and mixed plastics, into its basic natural components (lignin, cellulose, sugar and fiber). The result is a new thermoplastic material produced without using water, which doesn’t emit harmful substances and can also be infinitely renewed.

“Our totally innovative manufacturing process results in net zero emissions, contributing to the minimization of global warming. Each ton of UBQ used is equivalent to planting 540 trees!” says UBQ’s Executive Chairman, Albert Douer.

The alternative offered by UBQ facilitates the replacement of the single-use plastic containers used in our restaurants with sustainable items. The new products will be announced to our customers in early 2020.

“Our partnership with UBQ is another step in our commitment to developing sustainable actions, since it allows us to replace items in our operations with similar ones with which we can achieve a net zero carbon footprint,” says Gabriel Serber, our Director of Social Engagement and Sustainable Development.

Our alliance with the Israeli company brings us closer to our 2025 goal, which is for 100% of our packaging to come from recycled, renewable or certified sources.

In addition, this new commitment renews our responsibility as leaders in our industry to expand and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment through our actions.

Our alliance with UBQ is in line with our social and environmental impact strategy, “Recipe for the Future.” With the “Straws on Demand” program, launched a year ago throughout the region, we’ve managed to reduce our plastic consumption by more than 200 tons by providing straws only to customers who request them. Today, our restaurants in Argentina have stopped offering them and, in addition, we are continuing to develop sustainable paper and cardboard options to replace single-use plastics. Furthermore, UBQ will allow us to reach our global goal for 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 36%.

“Our partnership with Arcos Dorados has the potential to change people’s mentality regarding the use of waste produced on our planet. Who would’ve thought that everyday materials used in our society and in a restaurant could be turned into the durable products that surround us?” says Douer.