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TALKING TO CUSTOMERS ABOUT COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING.jpg

TALKING TO CUSTOMERS ABOUT COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING

October 23 2024

3 min read

Slashing costs and minimising single-use food packaging has never been more important.

​This guide will help you and your team confidently engage with customers about compostable takeaway packaging, making sure they know how to dispose of it properly in our green bins. 

 

By teaching them how to recognise compostable materials and why proper disposal is important, your cafe can help reduce plastic waste and support a more sustainable future.

 

You can check out our video showing example scenarios below.

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TALKING COMPOSTABLES WITH SILAS

KEY MESSAGES TO SHARE WITH CUSTOMERS

 

1. Our packaging is 100% compostable  

Highlight that your takeaway packaging is compostable and can be placed in compost bins. This encourages customers to dispose of waste correctly.

 

2. Recognising compostable packaging  

Help customers understand how to identify compostable packaging by showing them the certification logos or labels. This demystifies the process for those who may mistake compostable items for plastic.

 

3. The benefits of composting  

Explain the environmental benefits of putting compostable packaging in the right bin, such as reducing landfill waste and turning it into compost that can nourish the earth.

 

4. Where to find compost bins  

Provide clear instructions on where customers can dispose of compostable packaging, both in and out of the cafe.

 

If your cafe doesn’t have a compost bin, check with your local council to see what options they provide.

 

 

EXAMPLE SCENARIOS

 

Scenario 1: Promoting compostable packaging 

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Staff Member: Hi, how can I help you today?  

Customer: Hi, can I please order the chicken salad and a large flat white?  

Staff Member: Sure! Are you dining in or taking away?  

Customer: Takeaway.  

Staff Member: Do you have a reusable container and your BYO cup with you?  

Customer: No, not today!  

Staff Member: That’s okay! Next time you can bring them along. But no worries—our takeaway packaging is 100% compostable. When you're done, you can put it in the green bin located at [bin location].

 

Scenario 2: How to tell if it’s compostable 

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Staff Member: Here’s your meal and coffee. Do you need a bag?  

Customer: Yes, please.  

Staff Member: Just a quick reminder that your meal and drink are packed in compostable packaging. Even the clear lid and the window on this box can go into the compost bin.  

Customer: Really? But it looks like plastic.  

Staff Member: If you look closely, you'll see this symbol, which means the cup is certified compostable, and the lid has compostable labeling too.  

Customer: I’ve never noticed that before. Thank you!  

 

Scenario 3: Why composting matters 

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Customer: Why does it matter which bin I put it in?  

Staff Member: By putting your packaging in the compost bin, you're helping keep it out of landfill. Plus, it will break down into rich compost that can be used to nourish gardens instead!

 

Scenario 4: Finding compost bins

 

Customer: It's great that everything is compostable, but where’s the compost bin?  

Staff Member: You’ve got a few options! You can take your packaging to the green bins in [location, e.g., Rundle Mall], use the green bin at your office (if they have one), or bring it back here to the cafe, and we’ll dispose of it for you.  

Customer: That’s helpful, thanks!  

Staff Member: Also, feel free to bring your own cup and container next time, and you won’t have any waste to worry about at all!

 

TIPS FOR STAFF

 

  • Be proactive: Mention correct compostable packaging disposal without waiting for the customer to ask.

  • Use positive reinforcement: Encourage customers to bring reusable containers, but reassure them that if they forget they can dine in or, if they choose to use a compostable option, remind them of correct disposal. 

  • Educate clearly: Point out the symbols or labels on compostable packaging, making it easy for customers to recognise.

  • Provide options: If a customer isn’t sure where to dispose of their packaging, give them several alternatives (e.g., nearby green bins, their workplace, or even returning it to the cafe).

 

By integrating these conversations into your customer service, your cafe can actively contribute to a more sustainable future while engaging customers in an educational and friendly way.

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