In a partnership aimed at reducing food waste on college campuses, the United Nations Regional Centre of Expertise (UN-RCE) Detroit has teamed up with Make Food Not Waste, a dedicated non-profit organization based in Michigan. This collaboration recently spotlighted Wayne State University (WSU) through a series of engaging tabling events at the student center, drawing attention to the critical issue of food waste within the campus community.
Over the course of these events, students and faculty alike were invited to learn more about the environmental and social impacts of food waste. Make Food Not Waste and UN-RCE Detroit provided valuable insights into how individuals can make a difference in their daily lives. The initiative was not only educational but also interactive, featuring free gifts to encourage participation and a survey designed to gather data on food usage and waste habits among the campus population.
This outreach could not have been possible without the support of Green Warriors, an urban sustainability organization for undergraduates at WSU. Their involvement highlights the importance of student-led initiatives in fostering a culture of sustainability on campus.
Make Food Not Waste is making waves across Michigan with its mission to eradicate food waste in higher education institutions. By visiting college campuses across the state, the organization aims to create a more sustainable future for all. The partnership with UN-RCE Detroit at Wayne State University is a prime example of how collaboration between international bodies, local nonprofits, and university communities can lead to meaningful change.
Food waste is a growing concern, with significant environmental, economic, and social implications. Not only does it contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and waste of resources, but it also represents a missed opportunity to feed the hungry. Initiatives like the one at Wayne State University are crucial in building awareness and driving action among young adults, who are future leaders in sustainability.
The event at WSU is just the beginning. The insights gained from the surveys and interactions will inform future strategies to combat food waste on campuses more effectively. Through education, engagement, and action, UN-RCE Detroit and Make Food Not Waste are leading the way in making college campuses more sustainable, one plate at a time.
- During one of our events, representatives from the U.S. Department of the Treasury visited to gain insights into urban sustainability initiatives underway on campus.