ABSTRACT

The burgeoning sustainability movement within global culinary practices has become increasingly significant, particularly in Paris, a city renowned for its rich gastronomic history. This research aimed to investigate the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in advocating for sustainable food sourcing within the Parisian restaurant industry. Grounded in a holistic conceptualization of sustainability that encompasses environmental, economic, and social dimensions, the purpose of this study was to examine the potential of CSR strategies in shaping sustainable practices in food sourcing, fostering relationships with local food suppliers, and promoting organic and fair-trade products. The study adopted a mixed-methods research design, including qualitative interviews with restaurant owners and quantitative customer surveys to assess perceptions and preferences toward sustainability and CSR. It also carried out an analysis of existing CSR initiatives within select Parisian restaurants. The findings indicated a strong correlation between effective CSR strategies and increased sustainable food sourcing. Restaurants employing comprehensive CSR strategies showed a higher likelihood of using local, organic, and fair-trade suppliers, contributing to both environmental conservation and socio-economic development. Furthermore, these strategies were found to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. In conclusion, this research underscores the strategic importance of CSR in advocating for sustainable food sourcing in the restaurant industry, suggesting that integrating CSR into operational practices can enhance both the sustainability and profitability of restaurants. This integration can serve as a model for restaurants in Paris and beyond, offering a tangible approach to addressing global sustainability challenges.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainable Food Sourcing, Parisian Restaurants, Gastronomy, Sustainability, Restaurant Industry.