Green Your Event
Small changes, big impact.
Each of us can make a positive difference to the planet. Swapping just one meat dish for a plant-based one saves greenhouse gas emissions that are equivalent to the energy used to charge your phone for two years. Your small change can make a big difference.
Choose Foods Wisely
The greatest climate impact of most events comes from the type of food that is ordered. Food production accounts for a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions, with animal-based foods contributing double the amount of emissions to plant-based foods. 90% of Americans are making the change to eat less meat. Join this growing movement and choose plant-based dishes that have less impact on the climate and are kinder to the planet.
To reduce the impact of your event's menu, follow these guidelines:
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Choose a vegetarian or vegan menu.
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If serving meat, choose poultry over beef.
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Opt for finger foods to reduce the need for disposable utensils and dishware.
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Discuss portion sizes and the number of servings with the caterer to reduce the amount of leftover food.
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Ask your guests to bring their own water bottles, or swap individually bottled beverages for bulk beverages that come in larger quantities.
After the event, post a list of leftover food on the Brandeis Free Food Facebook Group. Discard any food left out at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature was above 90 degrees F.
Composting at Brandeis Events
While not using any single-use disposable items is best, in 2019 Brandeis catering services began providing all-compostable tableware at events rather than the disposable, nonrecyclable, No. 6 plastic tableware used previously. Compost bins are widely available around campus and in event spaces for leftover food and compostable items.