Artist Helps Coffee Shops Save the Environment

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. hospitality industry (n.) [hos-pi-tal-i-tee][in-duh-stree] – a type of business that offers services like food, entertainment, accommodation or leisure activities

Example: Hospitality industry is growing rapidly as people earn bigger income.

2. disposable (adj.) [dih-spoh-zuh-buhl] – something that can be thrown away after using

Example: Disposable cups are used when you want to eat outside the restaurant.

   

3. compost bin (n.) [kom-pohst][bin] – a container used to hold materials that decay or rot

Example: People can reduce waste by throwing leftover food in compost bins.

4. takeaway (adj.) [teyk-uh-wey] – describes food, drinks, or utensils that can be taken out of the restaurant

Example: Most people who are in a hurry buy takeaway food.

Article

Read the text below.

A local artist from Sydney, Australia has started an idea that helps coffee shops save both money and the environment.

Amelia Tovey used her creativity in thinking of a way to help hospitality industries like coffee shops become environment-friendly and cost efficient at the same time.

Concerned with the large amounts of garbage produced from disposable cups, Amelia sought answers on the Internet. However, she could not find any website that provided any solution.

She then decided to experiment using simple and cheap materials. Amelia and her team from the organization “Leave No Trace” placed compost bins in one coffee shop in Sydney. They also provided the shop with takeaway cups and containers made from natural materials.  

As a result of their experiment, the coffee shop was able to save money by 30% as it cut down the number of times that trucks took out their garbage. The waste was also reduced to significant amounts. 

Amelia is eager to receive other environment-friendly ideas from her community. She also hopes to share this idea to other food stores so they can help save the environment and cut on costs as well.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         How do disposable materials cause danger in the environment?

·         What other alternatives do restaurants have in order to save money and the environment?

Discussion B 

·         What simple ways can you do to help save the environment?

·         How can you challenge people to do simple things in order to protect the environment?