Arcos Dorados, the world’s largest independent McDonald’s franchisee, announced that it has eliminated approximately 200 tons of single-use plastic, roughly equivalent to the weight of 100 cars, since removing straws one year ago from beverages served at its 2,200 locations throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. This benefits the environment while raising awareness amongst the millions of Arcos Dorados customers served each day. Arcos Dorados’ success in this regard is a further reflection of the Company’s focus on using its Scale for Good to favorably impact the environment and the communities in which it has a presence.
“This is a clear example of our ability to leverage the breadth of our brand. Our responsibility to the environment is an important part of our Company’s values, and we remain focused on this strategy while seeking to convey a message that extends beyond our restaurants,” says Gabriel Serber, Director of Sustainable Development and Social Impact at Arcos Dorados. He continued, “These initiatives enable us to share with millions of customers, suppliers and other constituents the importance of small, positive habits to the planet; ensuring we are all part of the solution.”
Arcos Dorados is aligned with the 2030 global goals of the McDonald’s system and of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which seek to minimize the use of disposable plastic products. Arcos Dorados has made progress in this regard, and will continue to announce further developments related to sustainable packaging and materials.