Student Experience
UCSC to host webinar on sustainable dining
The lunchtime webinar will explore how campus food systems drive climate action, basic needs support, and everyday joy.
The UC Santa Cruz Sustainability Office, UCSC Dining, and the Center for Agroecology invite students, faculty, and staff to “Sustainability Spotlight: Sustainability and Dining at UCSC,” a live one-hour lunchtime webinar exploring how campus food systems drive climate action, basic needs support, and everyday joy.
Food sits at the heart of our climate future Global food systems account for roughly one-third of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, making dietary and operational choices powerful tools for environmental stewardship. Yet food is far more than a climate metric; it is a vital source of community, culture, and daily pleasure. This interactive session highlights how UCSC works to align campus operations with ecological health while nourishing a vibrant campus culture.
“Every menu decision is an opportunity to support student nutrition and shape a more responsible food system,” said Ryan Yates, Senior Executive Chef of UCSC Dining. “When we creatively bring plant-rich meals forward, source seasonal California ingredients, and thoughtfully reduce waste, we do more than serve a meal. We show that food can nourish our students, strengthen our communities, and move us toward a more sustainable future.”
Participants will learn about UCSC Dining’s multiple sustainability accomplishments, including plant-forward menu innovations, the Bring Your Own Mug campaign, reusable container initiatives, food donation programs, and composting efforts. The webinar will also outline practical ways the campus community can reduce single-use waste, support sustainable procurement, volunteer with local campus food systems, and help shape the future of dining at UCSC.
Event Details:
- Event: Sustainability and Dining at UCSC
- Date: Tuesday, October 13
- Time: noon – 1:00 PM
- Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/97397558448?pwd=qjgbmp3tW3XsdI4EvWtHNEWkFDSgTO.1&jst=3
Contact elvaugha@ucsc.edu for more information or questions.