By Limón, Costa Rica – In a bold move towards sustainability, McDonald’s, through its franchise operator Arcos Dorados, has inaugurated its 75th restaurant in Costa Rica, strategically located in Guápiles. This new establishment is not just another addition to the global fast-food giant’s portfolio; it represents a significant leap forward in the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The restaurant is the first in Costa Rica to be powered by a state-of-the-art solar energy system, underlining McDonald’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote renewable energy.
The solar energy system installed at this location consists of 77 high-efficiency panels, which are expected to generate a significant portion of the restaurant’s energy needs. This initiative aligns with McDonald’s global sustainability goals, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency across all operations. By harnessing the power of the sun, McDonald’s is not only cutting down on traditional energy consumption but also setting a precedent for the future of the fast-food industry in Costa Rica and beyond.
In addition to its solar power system, the Guápiles restaurant incorporates several other eco-friendly features. These include high-efficiency kitchen equipment that reduces energy usage, water-saving devices that contribute to lower water consumption, and waste management practices that minimize the environmental impact of the restaurant’s operations. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy by Arcos Dorados to integrate sustainable practices across all its restaurants in Latin America.
The opening of the Guápiles restaurant has also provided a boost to the local economy, creating 46 new jobs in the region.
What makes this development particularly noteworthy is the focus on providing first-time employment opportunities to young people. This is in line with Arcos Dorados’ commitment to social responsibility, which emphasizes the importance of supporting local communities through job creation and training programs.
The implementation of this solar panel system aligns with our sustainability commitments and confirms our dedication to making a significant impact on resource efficiency. We are proud to lead the way in sustainable practices in Costa Rica and to offer our customers a dining experience that is both enjoyable and environmentally responsible
Marianela Ureña, Communications Manager at Arcos Dorados Costa Rica
The new restaurant in Guápiles is part of a broader trend within McDonald’s to invest in renewable energy and sustainable practices globally. As consumer demand for environmentally conscious businesses grows, McDonald’s is positioning itself as a leader in the fast-food industry by adopting innovative technologies and practices that reduce environmental impact.
This restaurant serves as a model for future developments, with plans to expand similar initiatives across other locations in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica has long been recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with a national agenda that prioritizes renewable energy and conservation. McDonald’s decision to open a solar-powered restaurant in the country is a testament to this shared vision. It also reflects the growing importance of sustainability in corporate strategies, as businesses worldwide are increasingly held accountable for their environmental impact.
As McDonald’s continues to expand its presence in Costa Rica, the company remains focused on balancing growth with sustainability. The Guápiles restaurant is not just a milestone for McDonald’s but also a positive step forward for the fast-food industry as a whole. By integrating solar power and other eco-friendly practices into its operations, McDonald’s is demonstrating that it is possible to deliver quality service and products while also caring for the planet.
For further information, visit mcdonalds.co.cr
About Arcos Dorados:
Arcos Dorados is the largest independent McDonald’s franchisee in the world, operating over 2,200 restaurants across Latin America and the Caribbean. The company is committed to sustainable development, focusing on reducing its environmental impact through innovative practices and contributing to the social and economic growth of the communities it serves.
