Through our Atlas World community and its initiative to raise awareness to sustainable, ethical and creative companies, we have already interviewed Vagheggi and Respray Solutions and talked about sustainability in the beauty industry.
In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to speak with Zsuzsanna Lehel, the director of the Heroes of Responsible Dining Foundation, known as Felelős Gasztrohős in Hungarian, a conscious organization focusing on the dining scene of Hungary. The company was founded in 2012 by four individuals passionate about sustainability, and has been a pioneer in promoting responsible dining practices. Zsuzsanna, who joined the organization in 2018, shared insights into the foundation’s evolution, its mission, challenges, and the impactful initiatives they have undertaken.
Felelős Gasztrohős: Founding and evolution
Felelős Gasztrohős originated from an idea to bridge the gap between dining habits and sustainability. Recognizing the lack of data about the conscious organizations in Hungary, the founders introduced a certification methodology for restaurants. This certification initially focused on seven criteria, such as waste management, sourcing of raw materials, packaging, meat proportions, detergents, palm oil usage, and the use of straws and polystyrene packaging. Over time, the certification evolved into a three-level system, reflecting the level and the depth of a restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.
Educational initiatives and awareness
She also emphasized on the foundation’s other key commitment, which is educating the public. Gasztrohős developed engaging programs for various age groups, starting with kindergarten children and extending to adults. The programs cover three pillars: promoting local and seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste, and minimizing meat and dairy consumption. Zsuzsanna started her journey with the company by transforming the information into interactive games, magnets, and presentations, making the educational experience enjoyable and relatable for all age groups.
Challenges throughout the years
Gasztrohős faced and is still facing different challenges, especially regarding the traditional mindset, particularly the meat-centric Hungarian cuisine. Promoting a plant-based diet and reducing meat consumption faces quite a challenge in Hungary. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent energy price crisis also impacted the hospitality industry. Despite setbacks, the foundation adapted, maintaining a strong network of sustainable restaurants and fostering a sense of community. Zsuzsanna emphasized the importance of communication to the target audience as well and adapting programs to make sustainability budget-friendly even in times of price increases.
Growing network and impact
Gasztrohős takes pride in establishing a network of sustainable restaurants and fostering a professional community that earned recognition with the prestigious Green Star from Michelin. They see a positive shift towards a plant-based diet and they prioritize putting eating habits at the forefront of sustainability discussions. The foundation aims to strengthen its restaurant network, offering continuous support and an environment for sharing knowledge and insights. Gasztrohős also plans to expand its educational programs, ensuring a more significant and lasting impact on its participants.
Promoting values and Business Heroes
Gasztrohős believes in the power of personal connections and entrepreneurship as drivers of change. Zsuzsanna emphasized the role of business owners as example-setters and expressed faith in their ability to influence positive initiatives. She acknowledged the importance of recognizing and promoting businesses that align with sustainable values, citing examples of restaurants, like Reggeli and Naturahill.
Future Steps: awareness-raising and Rakun dobozközösség
Looking ahead, Gasztrohős aims to further extend its restaurant network and deepen connections with participants in their awareness-raising activities. The foundation envisions a holistic approach, providing continuous support and knowledge to individuals and businesses on their sustainability journey. Additionally, Gasztrohős’s side startup, Rakun dobozközösség, adds another layer to their commitment, showcasing an extended approach towards sustainability.
In conclusion, Heroes of Responsible Dining Foundation, Gasztrohős, stands as a pioneer of change in Hungary’s dining landscape, inspiring individuals and businesses to embrace sustainability in small yet impactful ways.
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