Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, the MAD Academy radiates innovation and passion, thanks to its founders, culinary visionaries René Redzepi and Melina Shannon-DiPietro. At MAD, they’re not just shaping the future of hospitality; they’re sculpting leaders committed to sustainability, one student at a time.


Meet Jack Muirhead, the Academy Manager, whose unwavering dedication to sustainability fuels MAD’s mission. His recent talk at the SCA Coffee Retail Summit shed light on some eye-opening realities within the hospitality industry.


Did you know that in the UK alone, dining out contributes to a staggering 26% of total greenhouse gas emissions? It’s a wake-up call that demands action. And within the coffee industry, a whopping 45% of greenhouse gas emissions come from consumption. These figures aren’t just statistics; they’re calls for change.


But change doesn’t happen overnight; it starts with education and action. Muirhead emphasised the importance of small adjustments along the coffee chain, urging businesses to take charge of their environmental footprint.


One of the most impactful changes? Routine appliance maintenance. It’s not just about tidiness; it’s about slashing energy consumption. Picture this: common appliances in coffee shops guzzle up 60% of their energy. That’s like burning through 10 barrels of oil or a year’s worth of petrol driving! But here’s the kicker: simple tasks like cleaning coils and ensuring proper airflow can make a monumental difference.
Imagine the impact: 100 businesses implementing these measures could collectively save a whopping 1000 barrels of oil in just one year. That’s not just a drop in the bucket; it’s a tidal wave of change.


And let’s talk about dirty coils. They’re not just a nuisance; they’re energy vampires, draining resources and funds. But a well-maintained fridge? It’s a beacon of efficiency, drawing energy less frequently and saving costs in the process.
So, what’s the key takeaway? Routine appliance maintenance isn’t just about keeping things tidy; it’s a powerful tool for slashing energy consumption, benefiting both businesses and the planet.


As we sip our coffee and ponder these insights, let’s remember: sustainability isn’t a buzzword—it’s a commitment to shaping a better future, one cup at a time.

Posted by: Lauren Algar

MAD Academy graph comparison of a dirty fridge coil and a clean coil