## Jaras Restaurant Partners with WWF Thailand to Lead Sustainable Fine Dining in Phuket
Jaras Restaurant, located at the prestigious InterContinental Phuket Resort, is making waves in the culinary world with its pioneering partnership with the World Wildlife Fund Thailand (WWF Thailand). This collaboration marks a first for Thailand, positioning Jaras as a leader in sustainable fine dining by merging local eco-friendly practices with worldwide conservation efforts.
This initiative underscores Jaras’s unwavering commitment to sustainable culinary arts and sets a new standard for environmental stewardship within the hospitality sector. By embracing sustainable gastronomy, Jaras is not only serving delectable dishes but also contributing to a healthier planet.
Embracing Sustainable Gastronomy
Jaras has long been celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, inspired by the rich traditions and pristine environment of Southern Thailand. The restaurant takes the concept of sustainable gastronomy, as defined by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO), to heart. Sustainable gastronomy involves sourcing, producing, and delivering food in ways that promote environmental sustainability and cultural diversity. Jaras incorporates this philosophy into its operations by prioritizing local ingredients and implementing sustainable methods.
“We are deeply committed to creating a dining experience that is as sustainable as it is delicious,” says Chef Chalermwut (Nui) Srivolalkul, Chef De Cuisine of Jaras. “Our goal is to bring together the best of Southern Thai cuisine with a strong focus on environmental stewardship, setting a new benchmark for sustainable gastronomy.”
Innovative Collaboration with WWF Thailand
The collaboration with WWF Thailand brings forth a groundbreaking project to address the issue of invasive species in Thailand. These species pose a significant threat to local ecosystems and biodiversity. Jaras, through this partnership, has taken a bold step by including these species in its menu. This not only helps manage the threat of invasive species but also enhances the restaurant’s culinary offerings, providing guests with unique dining experiences.
“Our partnership with WWF Thailand is a testament to Jaras’ unwavering commitment to sustainability,” said Mr. Bjorn Courage, General Manager of InterContinental Phuket Resort. “Through this collaboration, we are able to not only raise awareness of environmental issues but also make a tangible impact by promoting the use of invasive species in our dishes. This initiative aligns perfectly with our philosophy of using food as a vehicle for positive change and community impact.”
“The collaboration between the SCP Project under WWF Thailand and Jaras at the InterContinental Phuket Resort marks a significant step forward in promoting sustainable gastronomy in southern Thailand. This partnership aims to inspire other restaurants within the InterContinental Phuket Resort to adopt sustainable practices and serve as a model for hotels throughout the region and beyond. By leveraging the expertise of the resort’s world-class chefs and the knowledge of local farmers’ networks, the collaboration will demonstrate innovative approaches to utilizing invasive species, offering guests a fresh perspective on sustainability,” said Khun Rattaphon Pitakthepsombat, Deputy Conservation Director of WWF Thailand.
Local Sourcing and Waste Reduction
At the heart of Jaras’s philosophy is “hyper-locavorism,” a dedication to sourcing ingredients locally to minimize environmental impact and boost the local economy. Jaras sources all its vegetables from nearby sustainable farms, ensuring that each dish reflects the area’s rich resources. The restaurant practices zero-waste techniques, utilizing every part of the ingredient and transforming leftovers into creative new dishes. Its advanced Oklin composter processes significant amounts of food waste daily, turning it into compost for local farms and the resort’s use.
A Vanguard of Sustainable Gastronomy
Through its partnership with WWF Thailand, Jaras is not just a restaurant; it’s a vanguard of sustainable gastronomy, combining innovative culinary practices with profound environmental respect. This partnership marks a substantial advancement in sustainable dining worldwide, serving as a model for the industry. Jaras Restaurant demonstrates that delicious food and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, setting a shining example for the future of fine dining.