Yum Brands has achieved remarkable growth and profits, yet its commitment to sustainability has only deepened over time, as evidenced by various ESG endorsements. Embracing the 4R Principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Replace), Yum Brands actively supports the transition to a low-carbon and circular economy, making significant strides in climate action, renewable energy adoption, and circular strategies.
The company has launched numerous pilot projects, including the use of biodiesel for its logistics fleet and the recycling of packaging waste from daily operations. Innovative materials like ceramic floor tiles produced through energy recycling, low-carbon bamboo, and leather alternatives made from recycled KFC coffee grounds are now utilized in the construction and furnishing of KFC Green Pioneer Stores. These initiatives highlight Yum Brands’ dedication to sustainability and resource efficiency.
Commitment to Food Nutrition and Safety
Yum Brands prioritizes food nutrition and safety, investing heavily in advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and real-time monitoring to enforce strict quality control measures throughout its supply chain. This ensures that the food served meets high standards of safety and nutritional value, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals.
Transitioning to Renewable Energy
Aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, Yum China has set ambitious short-term targets, which include reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 63% and Scope 3 emissions from purchased goods by 66.3% per ton by 2035. In May 2023, Yum China established a Distributed Photovoltaic and Virtual Green Power Purchase Alliance with 40 key suppliers to promote low-carbon practices throughout its value chain.
Yum China inaugurated China’s first entirely renewable cold-chain logistics center last year, marking a significant step toward its renewable energy transition. Approximately 70 restaurants in Zhejiang, Anhui, and Shanxi provinces now operate at net-zero emissions, powered entirely by renewable energy sources and employing various green power trading models.
At KFC Green Stores, solar panels on the roof of the Hangzhou pioneer store and solar-powered outdoor umbrellas generating electricity for nighttime lighting exemplify the company’s innovative use of renewable energy. The integration of IoT, big data, and AI technologies has led to a 10% reduction in annual energy consumption, demonstrating Yum China’s commitment to sustainability.
Collectively, Yum China’s logistics centers and restaurants are estimated to consume around ten million kilowatt-hours of green power annually. CEO Joey Wat has reiterated the company’s dedication to driving substantial change in the restaurant industry towards net-zero emissions. The ongoing development of Green Pioneer Stores is a key component of this effort, showcasing innovative technologies in restaurant construction and operations to promote sustainability and support a low-carbon economy.