Posted on: Friday 23 June 2023
Around one third of all food produced for human consumption contributes to around eight per cent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Torfaen Council’s School Catering team is aiming to reduce at least some of these by transforming the way school dinners are planned, sourced and produced.
They have developed a new interactive Sustainability Road Map which sets out their plans for the next two years, with progress updated regularly so schools and pupils can track the progress.
One initiative has been a Waste Warriors competition for primary schools to encourage pupils to monitor and reduce food waste at dinner time. Find out more about the competition.
The work the service has done to develop the map has now been shortlisted for a national award by LACA, the leading professional body representing the school food sector.
The award nomination is for individuals or teams that stand out by achieving something different, showcasing innovative ideas, collaboration, and partnerships that have not only met business objectives but also elevated the school catering service's visibility.
The finals will be on Thursday 06 July at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “The School’s Catering Team are very ambitious when it comes to topics such as reducing food waste, and cutting down their carbon emissions. I wish them the best of luck on the evening – the deserve the recognition.
“They are working really hard with schools and other partners to make school meals tasty, nutritious and sustainable.”
This project contributes to the council's wellbeing objectives to respond to the climate and nature emergencies. You can read more about the council's County Plan here.
Last year, the council’s launched a new food waste recycling service for primary schools and secondary schools which use the Torfaen Catering Service. It’s just one of the ways in which the council is aiming to #RaisetheRate and increase recycling in line with the Welsh Government target of 70% recycling by 2025.
Find out more about Primary school catering.