University of Exeter
Building a campus-wide sustainable food system
Finalist, Campus Health, Food and Drink
About
The University of Exeter is reimagining campus food and showing that sustainability can be both impactful, as well as enjoyable. Aligned with Strategy 2030, our catering and retail teams have transformed into a community-wide sustainable food system, connecting everything from soil to plate and back again.
Working collaboratively across the University, we’ve brought together food growing, ethical sourcing, creative menus, behaviour change and circular systems into one joined-up approach guided by our eight sustainability KPIs. The result is a thriving, results-driven system that’s reducing carbon, cutting our food waste, increasing plant-based choices and improving access to affordable, inclusive food.
Proof that great food, community and sustainability can thrive together.
Top 3 learnings
1. Collaboration across University departments is essential to drive meaningful change.
2. Circular systems deliver ownership and stronger engagement than standalone sustainability campaigns.
3. Evidence-based menu design can significantly shift customer food choices
What would it mean to win
It would be incredible to achieve recognition for the team’s hard work over the last few years, to highlight their sustainability achievements, their overall impact and strengthen the University's reputation as a leader in sustainable practises within Higher Education.
SDGs
13. Climate action
| 2026 | |
| Campus Health, Food and Drink | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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