New York University Partners with NYC to Reduce Carbon Footprint through Plant-Based Diet Initiative
New York University has accepted the NYC Plant-Powered Carbon Challenge, a new City Hall initiative to decrease food-related carbon emissions and build a more sustainable food system in New York City. The University announced its participation in the initiative at its own NYU Plant-Based Food Festival, held at the Kimmel Center, an event hosted by the NYU Office of Sustainability, the NYU Animal Rights Collective, and the NYU chapter of Greener By Default.
By accepting the Challenge, NYU has pledged to reduce its food-related carbon footprint 25 percent by 2030—an important step towards achieving the University’s own sustainability commitments.
Linda G. Mills, NYU President, said “NYU aims to be a leader in the higher education sector when it comes to addressing climate change directly through our food choices. Delicious, healthy food helps our community flourish, and reducing the associated carbon footprint helps our planet flourish. NYU is proud to be a part of this initiative and we hope others will join us.”
Kate MacKenzie, Executive Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy, said “NYU’s commitment to reducing food-based carbon emissions in their dining facilities is a testament to their dedication to building a better food system, and a shining example for higher education institutions to set ambitious food and climate targets. We are delighted to join them at this year’s Plant-Based Food Festival to celebrate the deliciousness, diversity, and decarbonization potential of plant-powered foods.”
Cecil Scheib, NYU Chief Sustainability Officer, said: “Our community craves opportunities to make positive change on climate, and this is one of the best ways each of us can have an impact. Food and agriculture account for 25 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, so we get to make a critical choice with every mouthwatering bite. We hope other colleges and universities across NYC will join us in taking the challenge!”
The NYU Plant-Based Food Festival saw more than 20 plant-based food brands and advocacy organizations come together to celebrate and educate attendees on the flavor, health benefits, and environmental impact of adopting a diet richer in plant-based foods.
In addition to tabling and food samples, the 400+ attendees were also able to enjoy live music from DJs, a rock band, duo and solo artists, and plant-based cooking classes on how to make summer rolls and banana bread led by NYU Eats.
Joining the NYC Plant-Based Carbon Challenge is one of NYU’s many efforts towards achieving its ambitious sustainability goals, including its pledge to become climate neutral by 2040. In fact, since joining the global Coolfood Pledge in 2020, NYU has already decreased its food-based carbon emissions by 17 percent on a per-calorie basis.