Lancaster University’s Students’ Union (SU) has voted to endorse a transition to 100% plant-based catering across the campus, with 18/19 members voting in support.
The motion proposes a gradual transition, with a target of 50% plant-based catering by 2025, and full implementation by 2027 subject to review.
This makes Lancaster the twelfth university to pass a similar motion, joining the likes of Cambridge, Newcastle and Warwick [1]. All of these motions have come after extensive campaigning by the student-driven Plant-Based Universities Campaign
In an astounding majority, 95% of Lancaster University’s Students’ Union have voted to endorse a transition to 100% plant-based catering across the university campus. The motion, backed by a coalition of student campaigners and notable academics, marks a significant milestone in Lancaster University’s commitment to environmental action.
Faye Rennie, Plant-Based Universities Lancaster campaigner said:
“We are really excited that the students’ union is endorsing a shift towards plant-based catering here at Lancaster. This is a massive step in the right direction and fully aligns with Lancaster’s other sustainability commitments and initiatives.
We look forward to working with our Students’ Union and University to make the results of this vote a reality, making the most sustainable choice the most convenient one.”
This initiative aims to address the urgent need for climate action through institutional change, and the outcome at Lancaster reflects a growing recognition of the environmental impact of animal farming and fishing. In their policy motion, Plant-Based Universities Lancaster outlined the potential of a plant-based food system to free up land the size of Europe, the US, China and Australia combined [2]. Which if rewilded, could offset up to 13 years' worth of fossil fuel emissions, while providing enough protein and nutrition to sustain the planet- making this a key solution to the climate crisis [3].
The motion also highlights how the transition will be guided by student input, ensuring menus are sustainable, affordable, delicious and inclusive to all diners
The proposal garnered support from academics at Lancaster, including Professor Rebecca Willis, Professor in Energy and Climate Governance, who said:
“Reducing consumption of meat and dairy products is a crucial step in meeting our climate and health targets. I’m really pleased that Lancaster’s students are asking our university to lead the way on this vital issue.”
As Lancaster takes this progressive step towards plant-based catering, it demonstrates the pivotal role universities can play in leading climate action.”
Plant-Based Universities, an Animal Rising campaign, is an international initiative of students who are pushing for their universities and student unions to adopt 100% plant-based catering [4]. The group believes that universities have an obligation to follow the scientific research that they produce on the environmental impacts of animal farming and fishing. The campaign is active in over 80 institutions, with the group encouraging interested students to sign up to run local campaigns.
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