B13: Plant-Based Catering Policy

The urgency of the climate and ecological crises, and the inequitable
effects this will have for communities both across England and Wales, and
globally.

That the agricultural sector is responsible for approximately 12% of UK
greenhouse gas emissions [1].

That foods deriving from plants have substantially lower environmental
impacts than those deriving from animal products. This is especially true
as relates to greenhouse gas emissions, water use, land use,
eutrophication and biodiversity loss [2].

There is broad consensus across expert bodies (including the Climate
Change Committee; the EAT-Lancet Commission; the Food Foundation [3]) that
a societal transition towards a diet rich in plant foods is needed if we
are to achieve our climate goals.

More than 75% of agricultural land is used for livestock, but this
provides a much smaller proportion of protein and calories. Shifting
towards diets rich in plant-foods would reduce land-use pressure which
would have positive implications for biodiversity [4].

Research from the Oxford Martin School indicates that plant-based food is,
on average, substantially cheaper than alternatives [5].

The Office of Health Economics has found that a societal shift towards
plant-based diets could save the NHS billions of pounds each year through
reduced incidence of non-communicable disease [6].

The World Health Organisation has proposed a shift away from animal
agriculture to lower the risk of zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial
resistance [7].

As a collective body, it is important that we lead by example in making
sustainable choices where practicable.

Climate and ecological breakdown will have substantial negative impacts on
rural and agricultural communities. It is therefore important that these
communities are supported through a just transition to a more sustainable
food system.

It is important that all Young Greens events are maximally accessible in
all possible dimensions, including to people with dietary commitments,
allergies, or restrictions.

When planned appropriately, plant-based food is the most sustainable and
appropriate default option for meetings of the Young Greens.

Provide fully plant-based food for national Young Green events where
catering is provided, with appropriate exemptions on request.

Signpost local Young Greens groups towards resources that support them in
accessing sustainable, accessible plant-based food.

Promote public understanding of the benefits of a societal shift towards a
diet rich in plant foods.