Real change takes collaboration. Shedd Aquarium and our hospitality partner Sodexo Live! have proudly worked alongside one another for more than 30 years to advance sustainability and make a meaningful difference for our shared blue planet, together.
From getting a quick snack at Deep Ocean Cafe to attending an after-hours event, guests not only experience excellent service, but they are a part of planet-friendly solutions that have a positive impact on aquatic ecosystems far beyond our walls.
By integrating eco-friendly packaging, plant-forward menus, energy-efficient equipment, green building materials and advanced waste management systems, we aim to set new benchmarks for sustainable operations. Read on to learn more about how we’re partnering to protect the water that we all depend on.
Reducing Waste
Diverting Waste from the Landfill
Since September 2022, we’ve diverted 7,760 pounds of pre-consumer food waste from landfills and avoided the release of 54,300 pounds of cumulative CO2 into the environment.
We'll Sort it For You!
At Shedd, the food tray recovery system is designed to create a seamless, worry-free guest experience. There is no need to search for trash, recycling or compost bins — guests simply return their trays to the tray return conveyor belt in Bubble Net food court. From there, the process continues behind the scenes with support from a trained operations team.
Food scraps are separated for compost, eligible packaging is recycled and items such as napkins, food paper and grab-and-go packaging are diverted from the landfill. Reusable service ware is cleaned using an energy efficient dishwashing system. This approach ensures materials are handled responsibly and directed to the correct waste stream, supporting Shedd’s overall sustainability goals.
Working Toward a Plastic-Free Future
Sodexo Live! aims to eliminate single-use plastics in Shedd’s food service operations. We’ve been using biodegradable, compostable, plant-based, reusable or recyclable materials for over 10 years. We’re proud to feature eco-friendly products, including reusable flatware for all hot food offerings (and biodegradable palm, pine and bamboo serving vessels when applicable), reusable cups and food trays, a pump dispensing system for condiments, compostable napkins and more. This applies to our daily operations, as well as for catered after-hours or special events.
Grease that Powers Buses?: The Green Grease Project
The used grease from Shedd’s kitchen is chemically converted to biodiesel by students at Loyola University and used to power a shuttle bus fleet. This reduces the need for individual vehicle transportation for students.
No More Plastic Water Bottles
Sodexo Live! has replaced all plastic beverage bottles with aluminum cans, glass bottles or paper cartons to ensure that all beverage containers are recyclable. Cold coffee cups are made from PET, the most recycled plastic in the U.S., and reusable cups are available in the food court for fountain drinks.
Minimizing Food Waste
Since July 2025, our kitchen has used a system called WasteWatch to monitor and reduce food waste. The system helps us identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary food costs and maximize resources that can be reinvested into animal care and guest experiences. Beyond the direct operational benefits, reducing food waste is among the most effective solutions for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and slowing the progression of climate change.
Through our established relationships with leading manufacturers, we use energy-efficient culinary tools that promise quality and durability. Our Energy Star-rated products, from ovens to refrigeration, consume less energy and water than standard models. This proactive approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances operations, allowing us to serve guests with excellence and care.
Conserving Water
To reduce water consumption in our commercial kitchens, we installed low-flow pre-rinse faucets, repaired or replaced leaky faucets and drain stoppers, used sensor-activated or foot-pedal hand sinks and continually train staff in better water conservation and sustainability practices.
Responsible Sourcing: Global Perspective, Local Focus
To reduce harmful carbon emissions, we emphasize the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally. Not only do these ingredients enhance our menus, but they also support local farmers and growers, contributing to the local economy.
Additionally, Sodexo Live! maintains a robust supply chain with responsible vendors, regenerative agriculture, sustainable seafood, local and diverse purveyors and climate-friendly ingredients. Our dedication to responsible sourcing is evident through choices like sustainable fair-trade coffee, cage-free eggs and ethically sourced seafood.
Our chefs also cultivate items from Shedd’s own gardens, including honey, herbs and vegetables.
Elevating Plant-Forward Menu Options
We recognize the importance of plant-based meals in reducing our environmental impact. With our culinary expertise, we create delicious, healthy and eco-friendly options that cater to diverse tastes.
Supporting Local, Small and Minority-owned Businesses
We actively source 58% of our purchases from local, small and minority-owned businesses, such as Brown Cow ice cream and Metropolis Coffee, to bolster the local economy and promote diversity, and there is room to grow!
