University sustainability initiative raises money for local charities
Posted on 10 September 2024
Shop, save and sustain is a food waste reduction scheme, launched in September 2021. Surplus food items that would normally be discarded at the end of the day are instead discounted. For every purchase made through this initiative, £1 is donated to food-based charities within York, making a significant impact on the lives of those in need.
"At the University of York, sustainability is central to our vision and operations. Our commitment to environmental sustainability runs throughout every aspect of our organisation, and we are committed to fostering long-term sustainability across all areas." Arnaud Rustan, Senior Operations Manager for Catering and Retail
Each day, in the final 15 minutes before our cafés and restaurants close, unsold food is discounted by at least 50%. The food, including packaged sandwiches, desserts, drinks and hot food items, is still safe for consumption but would otherwise go to waste at the end of the day.
This allows members of our campus community to buy high-quality food at discounted prices, preventing meals from being wasted. Since the scheme began, a total of 33,561 items/meals have been bought at reduced prices and over £6,400 has been raised for local charities, including the York Food Bank, Kitchen for Everyone, and The Island. It's an impactful initiative which advances our University sustainability goals while supporting the local community.
"Thanks to a generous donation from Eat, Shop and Drink at the University of York, we can facilitate over 200 mentoring sessions for young people. Our volunteer mentors donate their time but receive a weekly budget for community activities. The Island offers "islands of space and time" for vulnerable children and young people in York, aged 8 to 18, helping to build their confidence, self-esteem, resilience, and unlock their potential for a brighter future." Nigel Poulton MBE, Chief Executive Officer, The Island York
"York Foodbank would like to thank Eat, Shop, Drink at the University of York for such a generous donation, to help ensure the availability of emergency food for the sadly increased numbers of people across the city who are being referred to us. In addition to much needed food items, this will also help to provide Financial Inclusion advice in Foodbank settings which can make all the difference for someone at a difficult time." Adam Raffell, York Foodbank Manager