By Tracy Morin

Sustainability is a factor that more customers and operators alike have on their radar nowadays, but how can a pizzeria get started on adopting more eco-friendly practices?

First, it’s important to make it a priority—which can simply mean considering how all of your business decisions may be made through the lens of a more environmentally responsible point of view. For some pizzerias, this perspective has become second nature. “Sustainability is woven into our brand,” said Bill Delis, owner of Doreen’s Pizzeria, headquartered in the Hegewisch neighborhood of Chicago, with a second location in Dyer, Indiana. “We’re about more than just pizza—we’re about quality, freshness and community. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices shows that you can enjoy great food while being mindful of the environment.”

In his own words below, Delis outlines four ways he’s making an impact at his pizzeria:

1. Sustainability Efforts and Importance: At Doreen’s Pizzeria, we prioritize sourcing locally, supporting our local economy while reducing our environmental footprint. By reducing waste, conserving energy and using eco-friendly packaging, we’re not just making great pizza—we’re taking care of our community and the planet. For us and other businesses, this is crucial to creating a sustainable future.
2. Publicizing Efforts and Customer Response: We share our sustainability efforts through our website and social media. Our customers love knowing that their meals are not only delicious but also made with the environment in mind. This commitment sets us apart and keeps our customers coming back, especially those who value eco-friendly practices.
3. Balancing Cost and Efficiency: We manage costs by carefully planning our inventory and investing in energy-efficient equipment. These efforts help us save money in areas like energy bills, which offset the cost of sustainable practices. We believe this approach allows us to remain affordable while being environmentally responsible.
4. Impact On Employees: Our team is trained in eco-friendly practices, and it gives them a sense of pride in what they do. They know they’re part of a company that cares about more than just profit, and this positive impact on morale is reflected in their dedication and retention.

As far as advice for other operators, Delis noted that you can start small. “Start by sourcing locally; it supports your community and reduces your carbon footprint,” he said. “Investing in energy-efficient appliances and using eco-friendly packaging are simple steps that make a big difference. Finally, engaging your staff and educating your customers can build a culture of sustainability that’s beneficial for everyone.”

Check out our full coverage on adopting sustainable pizzeria practices in the October 2024 issue of PMQ.