As environmental concerns grow, restaurants have a unique opportunity to make a difference through sustainable practices. While sustainable eating is often at the forefront of our minds, many restaurants are now turning their attention to water. From cooking and brewing to washing produce, water is central to every kitchen. But the way it’s sourced can greatly impact both the planet, and the dining experience.
Why water sourcing matters for restaurants
Water quality affects everything, from the taste of food to operating costs. While many places stick to city water for convenience, it’s not always ideal. High-end restaurants and coffee shops often need extra filtration to remove chemicals like chlorine, which can spoil delicate flavours.
Water sourcing also varies widely across countries. In Malta, for example, many restaurants refuse to serve tap water, even though it meets EU safety standards. The desalinated water has an unappealing taste due to its mineral content and chlorination, leading many establishments to rely on bottled water instead.
Meanwhile, in Australia, where water conservation is crucial, some restaurants have introduced rainwater harvesting systems. This approach reduces reliance on city water supplies and highlights their commitment to sustainability. Singapore takes things a step further with its innovative “NEWater” system, where wastewater is purified and recycled for use, helping restaurants cut down on water waste without sacrificing quality.
Smart ways to source water responsibly
Wherever possible, using local water is more sustainable. Transporting water long distances increases costs and contamination risks, which can lead to further environmental impacts. Sourcing water locally and treating it on-site is often a more eco-friendly option.
Using filtered or purified water
For most restaurants, installing a filtration system is the best practical choice. If you’re relying on city water, a good filter can improve the taste of your food and drinks. Checking the local water quality can help determine what treatment is needed. Afterwards, activated carbon filters are widely employed to reduce chlorine and other chemical contaminants, making the water taste cleaner. In areas with higher dissolved solids, reverse osmosis might be required, though this process can waste a lot of water.
Partnering with local water suppliers
For smaller cafes and restaurants, partnering with a local water supplier is a simple, effective solution. Regular deliveries of filtered water can save the cost and effort of maintaining an on-site system, and reduce wastewater production. This is especially convenient for establishments without the infrastructure to handle filtration.
Rainwater harvesting
For restaurants focused on sustainability, rainwater harvesting is another option. Farm-to-table venues or eco-conscious restaurants may find this a great way to demonstrate their green credentials. However, robust filtration is required to make the water safe for use in cooking or drinking.
Cutting down on water waste
Reusing and conserving water is key to reducing environmental impact. Turning off taps when not in use, reusing rinsing or boiled water, and finding small ways to cut down on waste can make a big difference over time, both for the planet and the bottom line.
Looking ahead: sustainable water sourcing
Water sourcing will always present challenges, but staying informed about the latest trends and innovations helps. Whether it’s through rainwater harvesting, filtering municipal water, or using recycled options like Singapore’s NEWater, restaurants have the power to make a real impact on sustainability.
How diners can help
Sustainable restaurants need support from diners. Choosing to eat at places that care about their environmental impact sends a clear message. When consumers show they value eco-friendly practices, the industry listens, and more restaurants are encouraged to follow suit.
Do you go for tap water or bottled water when dining out? Let me know your thoughts on whether restaurants should aim to source water more sustainably.
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