Cambridge University student reps have voted in favour of a motion calling for the implementation of a sustainable plant-based food system
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Cambridge University’s Students’ Union has voted in favour of starting talks with its catering services to remove animal products from their offerings in favour of an all-vegan menu.
Almost three-quarters (72 per cent) of non-abstaining student representatives voted in favour of the motion following a four-week consultation process.
As a result of the vote, Plant-Based Universities will initiate a dialogue with the university about implementing a plant-based food system.
Plant-Based Universities’ campaign, which is supported by animal and climate justice group Animal Rebellion, is described as a ‘nationwide initiative of students who are pushing for their universities and student unions to adopt 100 per cent plant-based catering’.
According to the organisation, it believes that universities ‘have an obligation to follow the scientific research that they produce’, in relation to how animal farming and fishing impacts the environment.
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Cambridge University votes for plant-based
The motion passed by the Students’ Union outlines how a ‘fully plant-based global food system could reduce land use for agriculture by 75 per cent’, with land then used to draw down carbon dioxide emissions via rewilding.
In a statement sent to Vegan Food & Living, William Smith, 24, from Plant-Based Universities Cambridge said: “It’s great that Cambridge Students’ Union has passed our motion to work with the University to implement a just and sustainable plant-based catering system.
“By removing animal products from its menus, the University could significantly reduce its environmental impact and showcase to the world its commitment to sustainability.
“The University Catering Services has already made important strides, for example in 2016 when it removed beef and lamb from all its menus. We look forward to working with them on the next necessary steps.”
Featured image courtesy of plantbaseduniversities.org
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