When it comes to the climate emergency and the nature crisis we can’t ignore food. How and what we farm, fish, eat and dispose of are some of the biggest contributors to climate change and the loss of nature.

GCU's Ethical and Environmental Network is campaigning to raise awareness of the importance of food in building sustainable communities, enabling students to make changes that lower their environmental impact in relation to food and influencing the catering outlets on campus to be more sustainable. Here is what we are doing and how you can get involved. 

Focus on Food 

Student demand for sustainable food is growing. In the latest (2021) survey of students, Students Organising for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK), found that 78% of students said they would be willing to change their diet to reduce their environmental impact. In response to this, The Students' Association is working with the catering company at GCU to increase the number of meat-free options on the Re:Union menu with a new menu introduced in January. We are also currently in discussion with them to introduce Meat-Free Mondays in the Re:Union. 

You can find out more about SOS-UK work around sustainable food including practical ways to get involved here.

Did you know that GCU has a sustainable food policy? Read it here

Let us know what you think of increasing more non-meat based dishes at GCU eateries here. 

Also look out for taster sessions, where you can try meatless dishes for free, which will be coming soon!

Waste Not Want Not

As part of our campaign, we will be out on campus with resources to help you cut down on food waste. On Thursday 14th April from 11am - 1pm we will be on the concourse (or the Student Life Lounge on level 1 of The George Moore building if the Scottish weather doesn't abide), handing out free bag clips, and recipe cards and more. 

Food Justice

We are working with the university to re-affiliate with the Fairtrade Foundation and offer more Fairtrade options at GCU. Watch this space for updates!

Go Local and Ditch the Plastics

Local and sustainable food shops are flourishing in Glasgow and if you haven't already, you should check them out. 

Locavore offer organic, local vegetables delivered to your door with their Veg box. Starting at just £9 for high quality, sustainable produce you can choose between weekly and fortnightly delivery as well as indicate preferences for what is in your box. Find out more here. 

Below are shops that offer plastic-free shopping. Buy the product, not the packaging! 

Society Zero
Locavore
Zero Waste Market
Neighbourhood
The Good Choice

If you have any questions or would like to know more, email us at EandE@GCUstudents.co.uk.