Three stars for excellence: University catering celebrates top sustainability status

The Food Made Good Standard certification recognises outstanding leadership in sustainable and ethical sourcing (procurement), community impact, and environmental responsibility across our food services, and is valid until December 2027.  

This achievement reflects the years of dedicated work from our catering teams, sustainability leads, suppliers, and engaged students and colleagues. The SRA praised the University for our “strong commitment to sustainability and social impact” that is demonstrated across our food outlets on campus. 

Alison Shedlock, Director of Campus Services, said: “Both social responsibility and environmental sustainability are within our DNA in Hospitality & Events. To receive a 3-star rating from the SRA is recognition of this commitment across our whole team. The SRA sets the standard for sustainable food and drink businesses across the world, working toward a hospitality sector that is socially progressive and environmentally restorative.” 

Julia Durkan, Head of Sustainability, said: “This achievement is a proud moment for the University, and a powerful recognition of the collective effort behind our catering and hospitality operations. It reflects our deep commitment to reducing carbon, restoring nature, and using resources responsibly through sustainable consumption and procurement.” 

“A huge thank you to everyone involved including our catering and hospitality team, suppliers, partners, staff and students for their hard work and leadership turning our ambitions into meaningful action for people and planet.” 

Setting the standard for sustainable food 

The Food Made Good assessment scored us:

• 79% for Sourcing – due to our Fairtrade leadership, responsible and local procurement, and prioritisation of plant-forward menus with higher welfare animal products
• 88% for Society – for treating colleagues fairly, promoting healthy menus, and operation of community fridges on campus
• 84% for Environment – reflecting our strong action of waste reduction, Net Zero commitments, and student engagement 

No Time to Waste: tackling emission, waste, and resource use 

Sustainability is at the heart of our catering services on campus, and this 3-star rating directly supports our No Time to Waste campaign, which is focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainable behaviours across campus.  

From cutting food waste and redistributing surplus meals to encouraging reusable options like the Bee Cup, our catering services are helping turn the campaign’s goals into everyday action. 

Take sustainable action today 

• Enjoy a meal at our UniCafe outlets, which offer a 10% discount with your Staff ID card. 
• Cut waste by getting your coffee from UniCafe in a Bee Cup, our reusable cup scheme that saves you money and reduces single-use waste. 
• Learn more on our Sustainability pages.