L-R: Zyntec Utilities business development manager Mark McLaughlin, Mayor of Middlesbrough Andy Preston, Olivello owner Jamo Ocak.

Sustainability boost for Middlesbrough with first carbon neutral restaurant

A new partnership has launched to deliver Middlesbrough’s first carbon neutral restaurant.

Energy and environmental consultancy Zyntec Utilities has partnered with Middlesbrough Council and Olivello Restaurant to make the eatery carbon neutral.

The energy specialist will provide the restaurant with ‘green electricity’ from sustainable sources such as wind and solar.

For unavoidable carbon emissions such as gas burners, the consultancy will provide carbon offsetting by sponsorship of tree planting and sustainable farming projects in the Madagascan rainforest.

In addition, Zyntec Utilities’ consultant Mark McLaughlin is auditing Olivello’s energy usage and business practices to help reduce waste and emissions from deliveries.

Ray Cruddas, operations director at Zyntec Utilities, commented: “We are proud to be part of this innovative partnership with Mayor Andy Preston and flagship Middlesbrough business Olivello.

“As a company we are passionate about helping our partners reduce the impact of energy use both on their pocket and the environment. We want to send a clear message that sustainability doesn’t have to cost the earth.”

Olivello, which first opened in 2018, is based in Linthorpe village and specialises in Italian cuisine.

Jamo Ocak, owner of Olivello, commented: “It’s great to be at the forefront of sustainable businesses within Middlesbrough and we are happy to give our customers the luxury of eating out without the guilt of environmental impact.”

Speaking about the initiative, Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston added: “The environment and green issues have never been more important, and local businesses can play a massive role.

“Olivello really are leading the way by becoming Middlesbrough’s first carbon neutral restaurant, and I know others will follow their example. Congratulations to Jamo and the whole team, and to Zyntec Utilities – initiatives like this make a real difference.”

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