To: Simon Fraser University
(Sustainable) Food for Thought at SFU
SFU campus dining services lack policy, guidelines and commitment around sustainability. I would like to see a dining services that:
- sources at least 50% of it's food locally
- offers baked goods and processed foods that have been locally produced
- ethically sources meats (SPCA certified)
- ethically sources eggs (100% free-run)
- sells and uses only third party certified fair trade coffee, chocolate, tea and bananas
- all seafood is certified through OceanWise or MSC Blue EcoLabel
- offers trayless dining
- offers vegan and vegetarian options, without compromising a balanced diet
- uses trans-fat free cooking oils and ingredients
- donates all excess food and food waste to local food banks
- uses napkins with more than 70% post-consumer recycled content
- offers discounts for those using reusable mugs
- offers a reusable container exchange program
- uses biodegradable/compostable take out containers, cups, cutlery
- prominently offers ceramic plate/ dine in eating options
- supports the campus pocket market
- supports and is interested in campus food growing initiatives
- supports student led research to improve and enhance food services on campus
- trains staff to use and promote pre and post consumer composting and any other sustainability initiatives
- pays all staff a living wage ($18.75/hour-- http://www.policyalternatives.ca/newsroom/news-releases/2010-living-wage-shows-real-costs-raising-family-metro-vancouver)
Why is this important?
We have been provided with a unique opportunity to offer comment and input in the process leading up to SFU's food services contract request for proposals. Whether the university chooses to renew with our current food services provider or go with another provider, this is our chance to let them know that we would like to see more sustainably, ethically and locally sourced foods offered on campus with zero waste dining options prevailing over our current take-out and throw-away culture.