Plant-Based Universities

About Plant-Based Universities

Plant-Based Universities is a student-led campaign network that pushes universities and students’ unions to adopt 100% plant-based catering. It began in late 2021 at three UK universities and has since expanded across Europe, with active campaigns in more than 70 universities and a presence in nine countries according to the website.

The organisation positions universities as influential public institutions that should align their food services with climate and nature goals. Its messaging focuses on the environmental impacts of animal agriculture and fishing, and on the idea that universities can set an example for governments and other institutions by changing campus catering.

Core Values

• Climate and nature action: The campaign frames plant-based catering as a practical response to the climate and ecological crises, citing the environmental damage caused by animal agriculture.
• Just and sustainable food systems: It calls for university catering that is both plant-based and aligned with broader sustainability and fairness goals.
• Student leadership: The organisation relies on student-led teams and emphasises the role of students in driving institutional change.
• Evidence-based advocacy: Its arguments are grounded in scientific research on emissions, land use, and the impacts of animal farming.

Unique Aspects

• Rapid international spread: What started at three UK universities has grown into a Europe-wide network active in more than 70 universities across nine countries.
• Documented campaign wins: The network has helped secure student votes and union support at institutions including Stirling, Cambridge, Birmingham, UCL, Graz, and others.
• High-profile public support: The campaign has attracted backing from public figures and academics, including an open letter signed by more than 850 academics and public figures, and later support from the UK National Union of Students.
• Student-led, campus-based model: Campaigns are run by student teams on their own campuses, combining local organising with a shared international movement.