“HoReCa Plastic Free” Panel – A Major Step Toward Sustainability

“HoReCa Plastic Free” Panel – A Major Step Toward Sustainability

On February 28, within the framework of the National HoReCa Expo Albania, the HoReCa – Plastic Free panel took place, bringing together experts, municipal representatives, and businesses from the HoReCa sector to share their experiences in reducing single-use plastics. Discussions focused on the global challenge of plastic pollution and on concrete solutions that hotels, restaurants, and cafés can adopt for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

It was emphasized that the Mediterranean is one of the most polluted seas in the world. Plastic does not disappear; it breaks down into microplastics that enter the food chain, harming both human health and ecosystems. In this context, the BeMed+ project was presented as an inspiring example of a methodology that helps businesses eliminate single-use plastics and take clear steps toward sustainability.

What BeMed+ offers to the HoReCa sector:

A practical guide and action plan in Albanian for hotels, restaurants, and cafés

Support for pioneer businesses testing plastic-free solutions in the pilot area of the Shkumbin River basin

“Ocean Friendly” certification by Surfrider, giving businesses recognition as responsible green leaders

Training and consultancy for practical steps that every business can follow, along with support in alternative tools and awareness-raising initiatives

Representatives of Elbasan Municipality and participating businesses shared their experiences, showing that involvement in the project is seen as an important step toward transforming the sector. The main message of the panel was clear: green businesses are the future, and every actor in the HoReCa sector can make a meaningful contribution to reducing plastic pollution.

The panel demonstrated that change is possible, and that collaboration between institutions, businesses, and the community is the key to building a plastic-free HoReCa sector.