**Mission Statement:**
Our mission at the Church Cafe Bar in Dublin is to create a sustainable and environmentally responsible business that not only is a leader in hospitality but also contributes positively to the planet. We are committed to minimizing our carbon footprint, promoting eco-friendly practices, and inspiring our community to embrace a greener lifestyle.
**5-Year Sustainability Plan:**
**Year 1 (2023-2024):**
– Conduct a comprehensive energy audit to identify areas for improvement.
> Establish A green Team of staff across departments.
> Quick wins- Obvious waste we can see on daily basis
– Implement energy-efficient appliances and lighting Throughout.
> All equipment being changed, ensure energy efficient equipment goes in as replacement.
> Audit lighting in all buildings, move to All led and sensors in unused areas.
– Introduce a waste reduction program, including composting and recycling initiatives.
> Beverage waste – Establish where waste is coming from and work on reducing. Cut 20% first year.
> Packaging – how all waste is disposed of, move away from single serve cans , small plastic containers, source recycled cardboard.
> Waste disposal needs to be better and separated more efficiently .
> Food waste – Establish how much food waste we have – in kitchen , from customers. Next step is to then work on how we can reduce this .
– Collaborate with local suppliers to source sustainable and locally-produced ingredients.
– Reduce our use of all single use items by 20% and plastic disposables by 100% .
– Achieve Green Restaurant Certification or a similar sustainability certification from FAilte Ireland and Sustainable travel Ireland.
– Establish how our staff travel to work and the carbon footprint of this . Then work on encouraging more use of public transport , cycling, walking .
**Year 2 (2024-2025):**
– Install solar panels to generate renewable energy.
– Educate staff and customers about sustainable practices and the importance of reducing single-use plastics.
**Year 3 (2025-2026):**
– Implement water-saving measures, such as installing water-efficient appliances and promoting water conservation.
– Expand the cafe’s involvement in local community sustainability events.
**Year 4 (2026-2027):**
– Explore alternative transportation options for deliveries to reduce carbon emissions.
– Engage in tree-planting initiatives to offset carbon emissions.
**Year 5 (2027-2028):**
– Finalize the transition to 100% renewable energy sources.
– Achieve carbon neutrality for the Church Cafe Bar.
– Celebrate milestones with the community and showcase the journey towards sustainability.
– Establish an ongoing sustainability committee to ensure continued improvement and innovation.
By diligently following this 5-year sustainability plan, we aspire to make the Church Cafe Bar a leader in environmental responsibility, setting an example for other businesses in Dublin and beyond. Together, let’s create a greener and more sustainable future for our community.