A famous hotel in Switzerland had an unusual tactic to avoid food waste, which involves posting shocking images of starving and malnourished children from Africa, along with a message making costumers uncomfortable in getting too much or wasting food.
The note, which was written in both English and Chinese, stated that malnourished children die while in Switzerland, people waste food, which is unacceptable.
"Good morning dear guests-- For ethical and moral reasons, in Switzerland we do not throw away any food. Please put on your plate only what you do eat. Thank you for your understanding," the noted continued.
Brigette Heller, Manager of Hotel Monopol, explained that the restaurant's goal was not to shame their guests. Although the signs were in English and Chinese, she pointed out that other tourists are also wasting food, not just the ones speaking the two mentioned languages.
She expects that foreign guests would respect their customs as to how they respect the customs of other countries. Even though some people are upset, the hotel still received hundreds of positive emails from China and Japan.
Heller explained that she isn't worried if it does affect other tourists because she's trying to make a difference, it may not change the world but it could be the start.
"I have realized that I am making progress and something is changing. I see it as my ethical obligation to do something and that is exactly what I am doing," Heller added.
Many readers of Swiss showed their support for her action. Michelle Heri posted on Swiss newspaper website that she finds the act as a great idea since too many food are being wasted. Another reader, Mark Natusch, said that this is a great initiative and that if ever he's in Lucerne, he will stay at Hotel Monopol to support the action.
Although people have been supportive, there is one that has criticized the hotel's method. Frank Tschigung complained that the hotel director is unfairly accusing the Chinese and the hotel doesn't even serve Asian food.
