Subway vs. Burgers: Sustainability Practices 2025

As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices, brands in the fast food industry are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices. In this article, we will compare Subway and various burger brands in terms of their sustainability initiatives as of 2025. This comparison will help consumers make informed choices based on eco-friendliness and corporate responsibility.

Overview of Sustainability in Fast Food

Fast food chains are significant contributors to global food production, and their practices can have a major impact on the environment. Issues such as resource depletion, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation are critical concerns. As a result, many brands are re-evaluating their sourcing, production, and packaging methods to align with more sustainable practices.

Subway's Sustainability Practices

Subway has made several commitments toward sustainability in recent years, focusing on three main areas: sourcing, packaging, and waste reduction.

Sourcing Ingredients

Subway has prioritized sustainable sourcing, particularly in its meat and seafood supply. The brand has committed to using meat raised without antibiotics and has partnered with organizations to ensure that its seafood is sourced from sustainable fisheries. Additionally, Subway is working towards increasing the percentage of plant-based ingredients in its menu, which can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with meat production.

Packaging Initiatives

In 2025, Subway has made strides in reducing plastic waste by transitioning to more eco-friendly packaging options. The brand aims to eliminate single-use plastics and has introduced compostable and recyclable materials for its sandwich wraps and containers. These initiatives reflect a growing trend among fast food chains to reduce their reliance on plastic and contribute to a circular economy.

Waste Reduction Efforts

Subway is also focusing on waste reduction by implementing food donation programs and composting initiatives in select locations. The brand has partnered with local charities to donate unsold food, helping to address food insecurity while minimizing waste. Furthermore, Subway is exploring ways to improve its supply chain efficiency to reduce food waste at every stage of production.

Burger Brands and Their Sustainability Efforts

The burger segment of the fast food industry is diverse, with many brands taking different approaches to sustainability. Here, we will examine the practices of several prominent burger chains in 2025.

McDonald's

McDonald's has made significant commitments to sustainability, particularly in its packaging and sourcing practices. By 2025, the chain aims to have all of its packaging come from renewable, recycled, or certified sources. McDonald's is also working on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its restaurants and supply chain. The company has introduced plant-based menu items to cater to the growing demand for vegetarian options, aligning its offerings with sustainable eating trends.

Burger King

Burger King has taken a strong stance on sustainability by committing to sourcing 100% of its beef from suppliers that adhere to responsible farming practices. The brand is also a pioneer in the plant-based movement, having introduced the Impossible Whopper, which appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. In terms of packaging, Burger King has been transitioning to paper straws and recyclable containers to minimize plastic waste.

Wendy's

Wendy's has focused on sustainable sourcing and waste reduction. The brand has made commitments to use cage-free eggs and responsibly sourced beef. In addition, Wendy's is exploring ways to reduce food waste through better inventory management and partnerships with food banks. The company is also evaluating its packaging to reduce environmental impact.

Comparing Sustainability Practices

When comparing Subway to burger brands like McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's, several factors come into play:

1. Ingredient Sourcing: Subway's focus on plant-based ingredients and sustainable seafood is commendable, but burger brands are also making strides in responsible sourcing, particularly with beef and poultry.
2. Packaging: Subway's move to compostable and recyclable packaging is a strong initiative, but major burger chains are also making significant changes to reduce plastic waste.
3. Waste Management: Subway's food donation and composting programs are a positive step, but burger brands are also implementing similar strategies to address food waste.

Consumer Considerations

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, their choices will increasingly influence the practices of fast food brands. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the sustainability of your favorite fast food options:

Transparency

Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing and sustainability practices. Information about ingredient sourcing and waste reduction initiatives can often be found on company websites.

Menu Options

Consider brands that offer plant-based options, as these tend to have a lower environmental impact compared to meat-heavy meals.

Packaging

Pay attention to the types of packaging used by brands. Companies that prioritize recyclable or compostable materials are making strides toward sustainability.

Conclusion

In 2025, both Subway and various burger brands are making efforts to enhance their sustainability practices. While Subway focuses on sustainable sourcing and waste reduction, burger chains like McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's are also implementing significant changes to their operations. As consumers, understanding these practices can help us make informed choices that align with our values regarding environmental responsibility. Ultimately, the fast food industry is evolving, and the competition to become more eco-friendly is likely to drive further improvements in sustainability across all brands.