About the speaker: Yurii Kosmirak is the general manager and head chef at NUMO restaurant.
— Congratulations on the Green Key award! NUMO is currently the only restaurant in Ukraine to hold this certification. What does it represent for you and your team?
— Thank you! For us, the Green Key is a symbol that we’re on the right track – the path of sustainability. We’ve reduced our use of water and electricity, implemented waste sorting, and built strong partnerships with local suppliers and environmental organisations. These are not just policies, but conscious choices toward a more responsible and thoughtful future.
— What specific actions helped you meet the Green Key standards?
— Quite a few. We introduced vegan dishes to our menu, switched to LED lighting, and started serving water in carafes to reduce single-use plastic. A major focus was staff training – now every member of our team understands the environmental impact of their role. We also track our resource consumption to become more energy-efficient and continually improve.
— NUMO also stands out for being accessible and inclusive. Could you tell us more about that?
— Inclusion is a core value for us. We’ve installed ramps, an accessible restroom, Braille signs, and an outdoor call button for wheelchair users. Our team receives regular training on inclusive service. We believe true hospitality is not just about excellent cuisine – it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and respected.
— Team spirit is another pillar of NUMO. What’s behind your success?
— Our team truly is the heart of NUMO. We don’t operate seasonally – our staff is permanent, highly motivated, and united. We invest in their development and support each other in every challenge. It’s a culture of respect and shared purpose that carries us through even the most demanding times.
— What’s next for NUMO?
— We want to be a benchmark – not just in catering, but in social and environmental responsibility. We plan to expand our sustainability efforts, improve accessibility even further, and launch new culinary experiences. NUMO isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a community of people working toward a better tomorrow.