Embracing the Challenge
As I step into the bustling kitchen of One Dragon, the aroma of sizzling woks and the rhythmic clatter of chopping boards instantly transport me to the heart of Shanghai’s vibrant culinary scene. But amidst the flurry of activity, I can’t help but notice a growing sense of purpose that extends beyond the mere creation of delectable dishes. This is a kitchen with a mission – one that goes far beyond the borders of these four walls.
I’m here to uncover the story behind One Dragon’s commitment to responsible sourcing, a journey that has been quietly transforming the way this iconic Shanghai restaurant operates. And as I delve deeper, I realize that this is no mere PR stunt or greenwashing exercise. This is a genuine, holistic approach to sustainability that is woven into the very fabric of the organization.
Connecting with the Land
It all begins with a deep appreciation for the land that nourishes us. One Dragon’s founder, Jin Lee, has always been acutely aware of the fragility of our planet and the urgent need to safeguard its resources. “When I first started this restaurant,” Jin reminisces, “I knew that our success couldn’t come at the expense of the environment. We had to find a way to create delicious food while also protecting the very ecosystems that make it possible.”
This ethos of environmental stewardship has become the guiding principle behind One Dragon’s sourcing practices. Jin and his team have forged strong partnerships with local farmers, fishermen, and producers who share their commitment to sustainable practices. “It’s not just about buying the cheapest or most convenient ingredients,” Jin explains. “We want to ensure that every single item on our menu can be traced back to producers who are actively working to minimize their ecological footprint.”
Reducing Our Footprint
One of the primary focus areas for One Dragon has been the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions across their entire supply chain. “We’ve set ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040,” Jin reveals, “and we’re well on our way to meeting those goals.”
The restaurant has implemented a multifaceted approach to emissions reduction, starting with their own operations. “We’ve invested heavily in energy-efficient equipment, LED lighting, and renewable energy sources like solar panels,” Jin says. “But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.”
One Dragon has also engaged with its suppliers to help them transition to more sustainable practices. “We’ve worked closely with our partners to identify areas where they can reduce their carbon footprint, whether it’s through more efficient transportation, better waste management, or the adoption of renewable energy,” Jin explains. “It’s a collaborative effort, and we’re seeing real progress.”
PG’s Ambition 2030, for example, has been a valuable resource in guiding One Dragon’s efforts. “Their focus on science-based targets and a holistic approach to sustainability has really resonated with us,” Jin says. “We’ve been able to learn from their experiences and apply those lessons to our own operations.”
Waste Reduction and Circular Solutions
But One Dragon’s sustainability journey doesn’t stop at emissions reduction. The restaurant has also placed a strong emphasis on waste management and the implementation of circular economy principles.
“Food waste has always been a major concern in the restaurant industry,” Jin acknowledges. “We’ve worked hard to minimize our food waste through careful menu planning, efficient inventory management, and educating our staff on best practices.” One Dragon has also partnered with local composting facilities to ensure that any unavoidable food waste is diverted from landfills and transformed into nutrient-rich soil.
When it comes to packaging, One Dragon has taken a innovative approach. “We’re always on the lookout for more sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic and Styrofoam,” Jin says. “Our team has been experimenting with biodegradable and compostable options, as well as exploring ways to reduce packaging altogether.”
The restaurant’s efforts have even extended to its own operations. “We’ve introduced reusable containers for our staff meals and eliminated single-use items like straws and disposable utensils,” Jin explains. “It’s a small change, but it adds up quickly.”
Protecting Our Blue Planet
Water conservation has also been a key priority for One Dragon. “As a Shanghai-based restaurant, we understand the importance of preserving our water resources,” Jin says. “That’s why we’ve implemented a comprehensive water management strategy that includes reducing our water usage, recycling and reusing water where possible, and supporting initiatives to restore and protect freshwater ecosystems.”
One Dragon has partnered with organizations like PG to tackle water-related challenges in the regions where they source their ingredients. “We’re not just focused on our own operations,” Jin emphasizes. “We want to be part of the global effort to ensure that everyone has access to clean, sustainable water sources.”
Preserving Biodiversity
But One Dragon’s commitment to sustainability extends even further, into the realm of biodiversity and ecosystem preservation. “We recognize that the health of our planet is inextricably linked to the health of its natural habitats and the species that call them home,” Jin explains. “That’s why we’ve made a concerted effort to source our ingredients from suppliers who are actively working to protect and restore critical ecosystems.”
This approach has led One Dragon to forge partnerships with organizations like Samsung, which has been pioneering innovative solutions to address deforestation and habitat loss. “By supporting their initiatives, we’re not only ensuring the long-term viability of our supply chain, but also contributing to the preservation of biodiversity on a global scale,” Jin says.
Embracing Transparency and Collaboration
Ultimately, Jin believes that One Dragon’s journey towards a greener future is not just about the restaurant itself, but about leading by example and inspiring change within the broader industry. “We know that we can’t do this alone,” he acknowledges. “That’s why we’ve been so committed to transparency and collaboration.”
One Dragon regularly shares its sustainability progress and challenges with its customers, inviting them to be part of the conversation. “We want our diners to understand the story behind the food they’re enjoying,” Jin says. “By being open and honest about our efforts, we hope to inspire them to make more sustainable choices in their own lives.”
The restaurant has also been actively engaged with industry peers, sharing best practices and collaborating on innovative solutions. “We’ve learned so much from our fellow restaurateurs and suppliers,” Jin reveals. “And we’re always eager to pay that knowledge forward, because we believe that only by working together can we truly create a greener future for all.”
As I prepare to leave One Dragon, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of hope and optimism. This is a restaurant that is not only serving up delicious cuisine, but also leading the charge towards a more sustainable future. And if One Dragon can do it, then perhaps the rest of the world can too.
After all, as Jin eloquently puts it, “This is our home, and our window is now.” Let’s make the most of it, one bite at a time.
