As one of the biggest players in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, McDonald’s Philippines leads the shift to environmental-friendly and sustainable solutions with 76 Green & Good stores. Since 2020, McDonald’s Green & Good has pioneered solutions that minimize the impact on the environment where each Green & Good store built amounts to an annual 52,500 kg of carbon dioxide (CO2e) and 102,000 (H2O) liters of water reduction.

The implementation of sustainable practices in stores is a testament to McDonald’s recognition of its responsibility to the community and the environment. With this, the company has put into motion different eco-conscious initiatives that elevate its mission of bringing feel-good moments to a system-wide cause.

The Sustainable Makeover: McDonald’s Environmental-Friendly Solutions
Since its founding in 1981, McDonald’s Philippines adheres to world-class standards in its restaurant and operations to ensure that Filipinos are given high-quality dining experiences. The daily production of the iconic McDonald’s menu and the delivery of service were constantly improved not just for efficiency but also to ensure zero to minimal effects on the environment.

To achieve efficient utility consumption, 19 McDonald’s stores are currently solar-powered with a total of 546,000 kWh savings to date. Rainwater harvesting tanks are also installed in stores to decrease the amount of water consumption, while inverter air-conditioning systems, LED lights, and photo and motion sensors help reduce CO2e emissions.

McDonald’s stores are also equipped with around 60% paper- or fiber-based packaging. For dine-in customers, reusable plates, cups, bowls, condiment servers, and utensils are available for use. Strawless lids are also implemented across stores to reduce the use of plastic straws. These changes allowed McDonald’s to reduce its plastic waste by 273 metric tons.

To support customers in their personal ways of reducing their carbon footprint, McDonald’s stores are also equipped with Bike and Dine areas so customers can enjoy eating their McDonald’s favorites on their bikes. E-Charging stations are also available for use by customers with two-wheel electric vehicles.

With the plan of expanding its store network in the country comes McDonald’s Philippines’ aim of doing it responsibly. With this, the company leads the industry in sustainable construction methods by adhering to Smart Restaurant Design principles that leave a low environmental footprint. This is done through repurposed and alternative building materials, offsite construction, as well as reduced site waste.

Looking Forward: A Green & Good Future
Starting with the first Green & Good store in UN Del Pilar Avenue in Manila City, McDonald’s Philippines continues to search for more environmentally-friendly alternatives to different areas of its operations. With this, the company aims to bring the total number of solar-powered stores to 25 by the end of 2023.

“With more than 700 stores nationwide, McDonald’s Philippines carries a strong commitment to environmental responsibility that inspires us to continue enhancing our operations. With the impact of the Green & Good campaign so far, we believe that it is possible for us to achieve both growth and sustainability at the same time. With this, we are constantly striving to deliver feel-good moments that have a positive effect on the communities we serve,” said Kenneth S. Yang, McDonald’s Philippines president and CEO.

Be updated on McDonald’s Philippines’ Green & Good journey by following McDonald’s PH on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.