Accelerating SME decarbonisation: A case study of the challenges and opportunities from the restaurant sector

The role of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in responding to climate change is gaining increased research and policy attention. However, given the diversity of the SME population, there is a need for studies which investigate the challenges and opportunities for decarbonisation in specific sectors. This study addresses this gap by analysing interview responses from 21 SMEs in the restaurant sector and conducting carbon footprint assessments for a sub-sample of eight restaurants. Interviews with governance actors were also conducted, generating insights into the challenges and opportunities for SME decarbonisation and the role of policy. Social practice theory is used as an analytical framework to provide insights about how lower carbon practices may be implemented via reorienting salient practices of food provision, ambience, and promoting restaurants’ local reputation. This study is the first to combine interviews with restaurateurs and sector stakeholders alongside quantitative carbon footprint assessments, generating new insights into SME decarbonisation in the hospitality industry and beyond.