Sustainability

by Paul Carter

originally posted: Apr-27-2009

You hear so much about it nowadays, but what exactly are chefs doing about it? It's something near and dear to my heart. I'm often asked about foods indigenous to Arizona. People expect to hear about exotic foods like cactus, rattlesnake, bison, etc. However, when I start to talk about all the great fruits and vegetables grown in Arizona -- and especially within 100 miles of Phoenix -- they're amazed, and sometimes initially a little disappointed, as it's not the exciting and adventurous answer they were anticipating.

I believe that economic growth and the well-being of society are inextricably tied to the health of the environment. If we embrace our responsibility for environmental stewardship and are committed to integrating leading environmental practices and sustainability principles into our lives and core business strategies, we can all make a huge difference.

Through collaboration with suppliers and business partners, we can actively work to reduce the environmental impact of our industry practices and continually improve and perfect our procedures, specifically aimed at:

conserving natural resources
minimizing waste and pollution
raising environmental awareness among our associates, guests and communities
We must acknowledge that, in many ways, like the global community we serve, we are only in the early stages of developing and implementing the many changes that will be necessary to achieve these vital goals. Nonetheless, I strongly believe that our efforts to support a healthy environment serve the interests of both current and future generations and constitute the foundation for enduring success.

There is so much we can do. It all starts with each and every one of us. Simply by asking such questions as "is this grown locally?" we can make a difference. You will probably be amazed at how much great product and produce is grown right here in the Grand Canyon State. Have you tried Arizona raised beef, Arizona olive oil or Arizona wine? Try living by the 100-mile rule.It can be fun as well as educational.

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