Berlin universities are preparing to cut meat from their canteen menus and introduce more vegan and vegetarian options in a bid to fight against climate change.
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Berlin universities will be cutting meat from their canteen’s menu in favour of more vegan and vegetarian options from October.
The plan to cut meat consumption in the universities’ canteens and cafes is an attempt to fight against climate change.
34 canteens and cafes at four different Berlin universities will offer a menu that is 68% vegan, 28% vegetarian, with just 4% meat and fish served.
Moreover, the latest announcement is a result of the increasing demand for plant-based and meat-free meals from Berlin’s students.
“There’s a clear trend towards fewer animal-based products”
In 2019, a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) described plant-based diets as a crucial component for fighting climate change.
As a result of this, more and more people are cutting down on meat-based products and opting for vegan diets.
Daniela Kummle of student support group Studierendenwerk told the BBC there was an increasing demand for more meat-free dishes at their canteens.
Kummle shared: “The great success of the vegetarian and vegan canteens have made it clear that students’ consumer behaviour is changing.
“There’s a clear trend towards fewer animal-based products.”
Interestingly, Berlin’s first vegan canteen for students opened at the Technical University in 2019, highlighting a growing preference for plant-based food in Germany.
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“We have pushed the topic of climate protection significantly forward”
As well as cutting meat consumption, Berlin’s universities have become dedicated to cutting down their carbon emissions too.
The Humboldt University aims to become carbon neutral by 2030, while The Technical University plans to reach the same goal by 2045.
In addition, the universities are refurbishing their building to ensure to increase their energy efficiency.
Head of The Technical University’s sustainability policies, Professor Hans-Ulrich Heiss, shared: “We have pushed the topic of climate protection significantly forward over the past four years.”
We all have a role to play in combatting climate change.
We find it so encouraging and motivating that younger generations are prioritising climate protection and doing all they can to ensure a better future for everyone.
Ready to create a vegan world? Find out how to take your activism beyond your diet.
