Promote Circular Economy Solutions:
Encouraging a circular economy by focusing on reusable, recyclable, or compostable materials is key to reducing reliance on single-use products. A circular approach ensures materials are cycled back into the economy rather than discarded, preserving resources and reducing environmental impact. For businesses, it’s about making mindful material choices and educating their customers so that these products can re-enter the lifecycle rather than contributing to waste.
Aswe face an unprecedented environmental crisis, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. This series seeks to spotlight the innovative minds and passionate advocates who are leading the charge in environmental conservation and sustainable practices. We aim to explore the most effective strategies, breakthrough technologies, and transformative policies that are shaping a more sustainable future for our planet. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Jamil Bouchareb.
Jamil Bouchareb, CEO of Restaurantware, leads with a passion for innovation and sustainability, creating products that reflect his commitment to eco-friendly solutions for the foodservice industry. Since its founding in 2010, Restaurantware has become a trusted provider of biodegradable tableware, packaging, and kitchen essentials, helping chefs and foodservice operators thrive with sustainable options. Under Jamil’s leadership, the company continues to stay ahead of industry trends, offering innovative products that meet the evolving needs of the culinary community.
Thank you so much for joining us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
Igrew up surrounded by the food industry, which fostered my passion for both foodservice and entrepreneurship from a young age. With a business degree from the University of Miami, I gained valuable insights through various roles in the industry, and I quickly recognized a significant gap. There was a lack of eco-friendly, innovative products tailored specifically for the foodservice sector — products that were as functional as they were design-focused. That’s when, in 2010, Restaurantware was founded with a clear mission: to provide chefs and operators with products they could use confidently and showcase with pride. By blending high-quality design with sustainability, we set out to address the shifting demands in the industry and to be part of a much-needed evolution toward environmentally responsible solutions.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
Early in my career, when I first introduced biodegradable products at Restaurantware, there was substantial skepticism. Sustainability wasn’t as widely recognized as a priority then, and convincing people to adopt these products required consistent, intentional effort. That experience taught me valuable lessons about persistence and the importance of education in driving change. Over time, as consumer demand for sustainable options increased, the industry’s perspective shifted. This journey underscored for me that innovation often requires the patience to invest in ideas ahead of the curve and a readiness to champion solutions for needs that, while not fully acknowledged in the present, are destined to become essential. Anticipating those needs, even if it means standing apart, has been foundational to our approach.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Vision: From the outset, I had a clear vision for Restaurantware to stand at the intersection of sustainability and innovation. This clarity allowed us to pursue goals that aligned with our values, even if they weren’t widely accepted at the time. For instance, when we introduced biodegradable products early on, it was a bold move in an industry still deeply rooted in disposables. Despite initial pushback, this choice positioned us as early adopters and eventually leaders in the sustainability movement as it gained momentum. Staying true to this vision has been key to our brand’s identity and long-term success.
Resilience: Building a company from scratch, especially one committed to sustainable practices, has demanded resilience. In the early years, we faced significant production challenges as we experimented with eco-friendly materials that weren’t yet mainstream. Each hurdle could have been a reason to pivot or compromise, but instead, it reinforced our commitment. One memorable period involved months of trial and error to perfect a line of compostable products. By pushing through these challenges, we not only found solutions but also strengthened our resolve and reputation in the industry.
Adaptability: The foodservice industry and global discourse around sustainability are always evolving, which requires a high degree of adaptability. When the pandemic disrupted supply chains worldwide, we quickly pivoted to meet shifting demands. We adjusted sourcing strategies, increased stock of essential items, and maintained our focus on eco-friendly solutions. This flexibility allowed us to keep our products accessible and relevant to customers in unprecedented times, underscoring the importance of staying agile in a rapidly changing landscape.
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?
We’re currently expanding our product line with a focus on pioneering sustainable materials and innovative designs that can replace traditional plastics in foodservice. This includes exploring plant-based, compostable materials and advanced biodegradable options that meet food handling standards while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, we’re working closely with our customers and partners to support their corporate sustainability goals, developing customized solutions that enable them to meet these objectives without compromising the functionality or design they rely on. Through these projects, we’re committed to making it easier for businesses and consumers to choose sustainable options that align with both their operational needs and environmental values.
What pivotal moment led you to dedicate your career to sustainability, and how has that shaped your approach to environmental challenges?
The pivotal moment came early in my career when I saw firsthand the immense volume of single-use plastic waste generated by the foodservice industry. This was at a time when global awareness of plastic pollution was on the rise, and images of oceans and landscapes overwhelmed by plastic were beginning to stir a public outcry. It felt increasingly impossible to continue contributing to this issue without actively seeking solutions. That realization reshaped my priorities, compelling me to integrate sustainability alongside profitability in every aspect of our business. I committed to creating products that not only reduce environmental impact but also maintain the quality and functionality that our customers depend on, making sustainability a foundational principle of our company’s approach to industry challenges.
Could you describe a groundbreaking project or initiative you’ve been involved in that significantly contributed to sustainability?
One of the initiatives I’m particularly proud of is Restaurantware’s ‘Plant One on Us’ program. For every order placed, we plant a tree, a step that reflects our commitment to not only providing sustainable products but actively contributing to environmental restoration. This program helps restore forests, offset carbon emissions, and create a meaningful, positive impact that reaches beyond our products. To date, we’ve planted hundreds of thousands of trees, and the response from our customers has been overwhelmingly supportive. This initiative is a straightforward yet powerful way for our clients to participate in sustainability, ensuring that every order they place contributes to a cleaner, greener planet. It’s an embodiment of our belief that even simple actions, when scaled, can drive substantial change.
How do you navigate the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation in your sustainability strategies?
For us, the key to balancing economic growth with environmental preservation lies in making sustainability both practical and profitable. I firmly believe that economic success and environmental responsibility can coexist when approached with intention. For instance, whenever we develop a new eco-friendly product, we prioritize performance — ensuring it matches or even surpasses its non-sustainable counterparts. By focusing on quality and cost-efficiency, we enable businesses to make sustainable choices that align with their economic goals. It’s about finding ways to integrate environmental objectives with market demands, so that sustainable options don’t just appeal morally but also make sense financially.
What emerging technologies or innovations do you believe hold the most promise for advancing sustainability and why?
Several emerging technologies hold immense promise for advancing sustainability, and I’m especially excited about innovations in bio-based materials. These materials, which are renewable and biodegradable, offer a viable alternative to traditional plastics, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, advancements in recycling technology and AI-driven waste management systems are transforming how we process materials, making it possible to reclaim resources more efficiently. Together, these innovations have the potential to dramatically shift our industry toward a more circular, sustainable economy, driving meaningful progress in our use of renewable resources.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Top Strategies for a Cleaner Planet”?
1. Embrace Compostable Packaging:
Switching to compostable packaging is one of the most impactful ways to reduce landfill waste and curb plastic pollution. For example, at Restaurantware, we offer disposable supplies made from bioplastic, wood, sugarcane and other renewable resources, which break down within months under composting conditions, unlike traditional plastics that take centuries. This shift not only benefits the environment but also meets the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging options.
2. Promote Circular Economy Solutions:
Encouraging a circular economy by focusing on reusable, recyclable, or compostable materials is key to reducing reliance on single-use products. A circular approach ensures materials are cycled back into the economy rather than discarded, preserving resources and reducing environmental impact. For businesses, it’s about making mindful material choices and educating their customers so that these products can re-enter the lifecycle rather than contributing to waste.
3. Support Local Sourcing:
Reducing our carbon footprint includes minimizing packaging waste across the supply chain. Through our SIOC (Ships in Own Container) program, we eliminate the need for excess cardboard and packing materials by shipping select products in their own durable containers. This approach reduces the overall volume of packaging waste, conserves resources, and decreases emissions associated with transporting bulkier, over-packaged items. By delivering products in efficient, ready-to-ship containers, we’re able to streamline logistics and contribute to a cleaner planet without compromising product protection or quality.
4. Invest in Consumer Education:
Our commitment to sustainability extends to offering personalized support through our customer success and sales teams. These teams work closely with customers to understand their unique needs and recommend products that align with their sustainability goals. By providing customized product recommendations and clear guidance on responsible disposal, we empower our customers to make informed, eco-friendly choices that suit their operations. This tailored approach ensures that each customer has the resources and support needed to integrate sustainability into their business practices effectively.
5. Innovate with Alternative Materials:
Exploring and investing in alternative, eco-friendly materials is essential to staying ahead of environmental challenges. For example, we’re researching algae-based materials as a renewable option for future product lines. Innovations like these not only reduce dependency on fossil fuels but also open new possibilities for creating biodegradable products that seamlessly integrate into nature’s lifecycle.
In your view, what are the key steps individuals, communities, and governments need to take to achieve a more sustainable future?
To achieve a sustainable future, I believe we need a coordinated effort focused on regulation, innovation, and education. Governments play a crucial role by setting and enforcing standards for waste management, emissions, and sustainable sourcing, while offering incentives that encourage businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. Communities can amplify this impact by supporting local sustainability initiatives, advocating for eco-conscious products, and creating demand for responsible business practices. At an individual level, small actions like reducing, reusing, and recycling add up and reinforce a culture of sustainability. Achieving a sustainable future is a shared responsibility, and by taking action across all levels, we can create lasting change.To achieve a sustainable future, I believe we need a coordinated effort focused on regulation, innovation, and education. Governments play a crucial role by setting and enforcing standards for waste management, emissions, and sustainable sourcing, while offering incentives that encourage businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. Communities can amplify this impact by supporting local sustainability initiatives, advocating for eco-conscious products, and creating demand for responsible business practices. At an individual level, small actions like reducing, reusing, and recycling add up and reinforce a culture of sustainability. Achieving a sustainable future is a shared responsibility, and by taking action across all levels, we can create lasting change.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
If I could start a movement, it would establish a global network dedicated to sustainable foodservice innovation. Imagine an annual event where businesses, researchers, and innovators collaborate to share breakthrough technologies, best practices, and resources in real time. This network could accelerate the development of solutions like smart packaging, zero-waste kitchen models, and scalable biodegradable alternatives. By connecting the brightest minds in the industry, we could fast-track advancements that go beyond eliminating single-use plastics to rethinking how the foodservice sector interacts with the environment. Ultimately, this movement would make sustainability not just a choice, but the norm, creating a future where environmentally responsible practices are accessible and practical for every business.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
Readers can follow our journey and stay updated on our sustainability initiatives through Restaurantware.com, the brand’s social channels (Instagram, X, Facebook), and my LinkedIn.
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.
About the Interviewer: Wanda Malhotra is a wellness entrepreneur, lifestyle journalist, and the CEO of Crunchy Mama Box, a mission-driven platform promoting conscious living. CMB empowers individuals with educational resources and vetted products to help them make informed choices. Passionate about social causes like environmental preservation and animal welfare, Wanda writes about clean beauty, wellness, nutrition, social impact and sustainability, simplifying wellness with curated resources. Join Wanda and the Crunchy Mama Box community in embracing a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle at CrunchyMamaBox.com.
