In today’s event landscape, sustainability is everywhere. Compostable plates. Paper straws. “Green” checkboxes on RFPs. But at 12th Street Catering, sustainability isn’t a trend. It is a mindset. A commitment. A daily practice that shapes not just how we cater events, but how we show up for our community, our partners, and the planet.
For Executive Chef and COO Adam Delosso, sustainability goes far beyond the expected. It is not just about reducing waste or sourcing responsibly. It is about balance. It is about asking a deeper question. Are we creating a positive impact in everything we touch?
A New Definition of Sustainability
Traditionally, sustainability has been defined by environmental impact alone. But at 12th Street Catering, we have redefined it to encompass four key pillars: environment, business, culture, and life.
Because true sustainability is not one dimensional. It is holistic.
It is protecting natural resources while building a thriving workplace culture. It is delivering exceptional events while strengthening the communities we serve. It is running a successful business while staying grounded in purpose.
As Adam puts it, sustainability is about balance. And balance requires intention.
The Recipe for Sustained Success
At the heart of 12th Street Catering’s approach is what Adam calls the recipe for sustainability. It is built on foundational principles that guide every decision, every partnership, and every plate served.
This includes a commitment to continuous improvement, the courage to challenge industry norms, the capability to execute at a high level, and the confidence to lead with purpose.
But beyond frameworks and strategies, it is powered by something more human: curiosity, passion, and positivity.
That energy is contagious, and it shows up in everything we do.
Sustainability in Action: Beyond the Buzzwords
So what does this actually look like for event planners and organizations?
It means working with a catering partner who does not just talk about sustainability, but actively builds it into every layer of the experience.
Carbon Conscious Menus
In collaboration with partners like Academy of Natural Sciences, 12th Street Catering has developed innovative carbon neutral menu strategies. These menus are thoughtfully designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising flavor, creativity, or guest experience.
It is proof that sustainability and luxury can coexist.
Food Waste Reduction and Composting
From kitchen to cleanup, minimizing waste is a priority. Through robust composting programs and operational efficiencies, we are constantly working to reduce what goes to landfill.
And when food can be saved, it is. We partner with local organizations to donate surplus, ensuring that high quality meals reach those who need them most.
Purpose Driven Partnerships
We believe sustainability is a team effort. That is why we intentionally align with organizations that share our values.
Through partnerships with groups like Trellis for Tomorrow and The Satell Institute, we extend our impact far beyond the event floor.
And through initiatives like Trees for the Future, we actively offset carbon emissions, turning every event into an opportunity to give back to the planet.
Community Impact: The Heart of It All
Sustainability is not just about the environment. It is about people.
At 12th Street Catering, community impact is woven into our DNA. Whether it is supporting local nonprofits, sourcing from regional partners, or creating opportunities within our own team, we are committed to building something bigger than ourselves.
Because a truly sustainable business does not just exist in a community. It uplifts it.
A Culture That Fuels Growth
Behind every successful sustainability initiative is a strong internal culture.
At 12th Street Catering, that culture is built on empowering the right people in the right roles, encouraging a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities to learn, and leading with humility and resilience.
This is not just good for business. It is essential for long term impact.
When teams feel supported, inspired, and aligned with a shared vision, they do not just perform. They innovate.
From the Kitchen to the Stage: Sharing the Message
In March, Adam brought this philosophy to a wider audience when he presented to the Meeting Professionals International Philadelphia Chapter.
His message resonated deeply with event professionals navigating the evolving expectations around sustainability.
Because the truth is, planners today are under pressure to deliver events that are not only memorable, but meaningful.
And that requires partners who can do more than execute. It requires partners who can lead.
Why This Matters for Event Planners
If you are an event planner or organization prioritizing sustainability, here is the reality. Your catering partner plays a critical role in your overall impact.
Food and beverage decisions influence everything from carbon footprint to waste generation to community engagement.
Choosing a partner like 12th Street Catering means aligning with a team that shares your values, elevating your event experience without compromise, and demonstrating authentic commitment, not performative gestures.
Because sustainability is not about checking a box. It is about making choices that matter.
The Bigger Picture: Improving Everything We Touch
At its core, 12th Street Catering’s approach to sustainability is simple. Leave everything better than you found it.
Better for the environment.
Better for the community.
Better for our clients and their guests.
This mindset drives us to keep evolving, keep learning, and keep pushing the boundaries of what sustainable catering can look like.
Because the goal is not perfection. It is progress.
Let’s Build Something Meaningful Together
Sustainability is not a destination. It is a journey, one that requires collaboration, creativity, and commitment.
At 12th Street Catering, we are proud to partner with organizations and planners who are ready to think bigger, go deeper, and create events that do not just impress, but inspire.
If you are looking for a catering partner who brings energy, innovation, and purpose to the table, we are ready.
Let’s redefine what is possible, together.
