Core Insights - The article highlights the entrepreneurial journey of an American youth, Rocco, who has successfully established a "leftover blind box" platform in Chengdu, China, aimed at reducing food waste while providing affordable meals to consumers [1][2]. Company Overview - Rocco's platform allows restaurants to sell unsold food at a low price, transforming potential waste into a valuable product for consumers [2]. - The initiative began after Rocco discovered that a hotel was wasting 800 kilograms of food weekly, much of which was still edible [2]. Industry Context - The "leftover blind box" concept has become a unique feature of Chengdu's dining scene, reflecting a growing awareness and action against food waste in the restaurant industry [2]. - Rocco's experience illustrates the cultural nuances of doing business in China, where communication barriers exist but can be overcome with sincerity and persistence [4]. Market Dynamics - Chengdu's entrepreneurial environment is characterized by lower costs compared to the U.S., with Rocco noting that the cost of starting a business in Chengdu is only one-fifth of that in America [4]. - The local population's curiosity and willingness to try new ideas have contributed to the platform's acceptance and growth [4]. Social Impact - The platform not only addresses food waste but also fosters a sense of community, as evidenced by positive feedback from customers who appreciate the meaningfulness of their meals [5]. - Rocco's integration into Chengdu's lifestyle, including local activities and friendships, underscores the social dimension of his entrepreneurial venture [5].

Core Viewpoint - Haikou's restaurant industry is promoting small and half-sized dishes to encourage a culture of saving and reduce food waste [1][3][5] Group 1: Industry Initiatives - The restaurant industry in Haikou has actively implemented the "Clean Plate Campaign" by offering various meal combinations, small dishes, and half-sized dishes to cater to diverse consumer needs while promoting the idea of saving [3][5] - Many restaurants have redesigned their menus to include small portion options and have trained staff on ordering techniques to guide consumers in making reasonable choices [3][4] Group 2: Consumer Preferences - Consumers appreciate the ability to try multiple dishes without the fear of waste, as demonstrated by a customer who enjoyed the option of ordering half portions [2][3] - The carefully designed meal packages, such as single, double, and family meals, have gained popularity among office workers and students due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness [4] Group 3: Environmental Considerations - Haikou's restaurants are enhancing their takeout services by improving the quality of packaging, offering eco-friendly options like biodegradable containers and insulated bags [4] - The restaurant industry is seen as a key player in promoting food-saving practices, with industry associations encouraging diverse service models to instill the concept of saving food in every aspect of dining [5]

Group 1 - The core message emphasizes the importance of reducing food waste and promoting a culture of frugality and rational consumption among consumers during the upcoming "May Day" holiday [1] - Consumers are encouraged to order food based on actual needs, such as inquiring about portion sizes and opting for smaller dishes to avoid waste [2] - The association advises against extravagant wedding banquets and encourages consumers to plan according to actual needs, including discussing leftover handling with venues [3] Group 2 - Online food ordering should avoid wasteful practices like "full reduction" promotions, with consumers urged to select meals based on actual needs [4] - Consumers are encouraged to report any illegal practices related to excessive ordering or minimum spending requirements, with a focus on consumer rights and environmental supervision [5] - The initiative aims to foster a civilized and healthy dining environment, contributing to a resource-saving society [5]

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming "May Day" holiday prompts the China Consumers Association to advocate for the promotion of traditional virtues of thrift and the establishment of a scientific and rational consumption concept among consumers [1] Group 1 - The China Consumers Association encourages consumers to practice the "Clean Plate Campaign" to combat food waste [1] - The initiative aims to foster a civilized, healthy, and environmentally friendly dining consumption trend [1]