Plant-Based Universities is an international student-led campaign calling for universities and student unions to adopt fully plant-based catering.[1][2] The campaign began in late 2021[3] by Animal Rising with the goal of 100% plant-based catering in universities in response to the climate crisis.[4] Its chapters have initiated votes in students' unions and, as of November 2024, had been successful in one Austrian and twelve British universities, with around 80 active campaigns across eight countries.
Successful campaigns
As of November 2024, the campaign had been successful in the following universities:
University of Stirling was the first one to move to ban animal products from its outlets. The campaign had been backed by BBC presenter and conservationist Chris Packham. Journalist and activist George Monbiot also expressed his support, saying the campaigners were "leading the way in tackling the climate crisis and creating a sustainable food system".[5] The decision was met with significant pushback by animal farmers and the Countryside Alliance.[6]
Though students at the University of Cambridge voted in favour of a transition to fully plant-based menus, the ultimate decision lies with the university.[7][8]
Newcastle University's Student Council voted to ensure at least 50% of food is plant-based at its ticketed events, and up to 100% where possible.[9]
In a vote which attracted the highest turnout in the University of Kent's history, 450 students voted for university-run catering facilities to introduce entirely plant-based food by academic year 2027/28.[10]
Queen Mary University of London Students’ Union passed a motion for its catering to become fully plant-based by 2029. From 60% in academic year 2024/25, it aims to increase the proportion of its plant-based options in its menus by 10% annually in subsequent years.[15][16]
At Lancaster University, the vote to shift to 100% plant-based catering, though supported by 18 of the 19 student delegates, was met with criticism from the Countryside Alliance.[18]
While University of Warwick students voted in favour of a shift to 100% plant-based catering in November 2023,[19] the Unions’ Board of Trustees eventually revoked the decision in August 2024, explaining that their decision was taken after “careful consideration of the practical and financial challenges”.[20]
