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Avendra International creates carbon labelling tool for menus

16th Dec 2025 - 08:38
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Abstract
Avendra International’s Pi eProcurement system helps caterers and hospitality teams calculate the carbon emissions of each dish.

Pi uses data from reputable sources like the World Resources Institute and the Poore & Nemecek (2018) study to help provide indicative CO₂e values and carbon footprint labels.

These labels categorise meals from very low to very high carbon emissions [E to A respectively], enabling both kitchen teams and customers to make informed, sustainable choices.

The average carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions of a UK meal are estimated to be 1.7kg – this exceeds the Paris Agreement’s target of <0.5kg per meal by more than three times.

Many organisations want to reduce their environmental impact, but lack the tools to measure carbon footprint of their dishes. Without clear data, it’s difficult to make informed menu decisions.

Key Benefits:

  • Automated CO₂e Calculations: As ingredients are added to the basket, their CO₂e values are automatically calculated
  • Clear Labelling: Easily identifiable labels to guide sustainable choices for customers.
  • Comprehensive Data Sharing: 'The Food Checker' online tool allows customers to access detailed information through QR codes.

The University of Birmingham uses Pi to support its Carbon A-Rated Menu, a leading sustainability initiative for conferences and hospitality. Each dish is assessed from field to fork, aiming to keep emissions below 500g of CO₂e and focusing on local, seasonal, and ethically sourced ingredients.

Shaun Craig, associate director of culinary & development at the University of Birmingham, said: “Since launching the initiative in April 2023, University of Birmingham has saved more than 25,000 tonnes of CO₂ and earned a Sustainable Innovation Award in recognition of our efforts. Our Green Conferencing Package is now our ‘default menu’ and Pi has been instrumental in making this possible – it’s a fantastic bit of kit.”

Book a demo

To learn more about this carbon labelling tool, and other ways to reduce your organisation’s carbon footprint, contact the Avendra International team at hello_UK@avendra.com. For more information, visit: www.avendra.com/en/uk.

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Written by
Edward Waddell