CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN THE HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM SECTOR: THE CASE OF WASTE COOKING OIL

The hospitality sector, one of the fastest-growing global industries, significantly contributes to economic development but is simultaneously responsible for substantial environmental impacts, particularly waste generation. Waste cooking oil (WCO) emerges as a critical environmental and economic issue within this industry, presenting challenges and opportunities. This chapter explores the transformative role of circular economy (CE) principles in hospitality through the reutilization of WCO, showcasing its conversion from an environmental burden into valuable industrial resources, such as biofuels, polymers, and industrial additives. It further examines regulatory frameworks, innovative recycling pathways, and sustainable business models that leverage WCO within regional hospitality contexts.