Sustainable food

At the University of Leeds, we believe that food plays an important role in creating a healthier, fairer and more sustainable future. Through our food procurement, catering services, research and partnerships, we are working to reduce environmental impacts while supporting healthy, affordable and ethical food choices.

Our Sustainable Food Standard prioritises local and seasonal produce, ethically sourced ingredients and environmentally responsible production methods.

Across campus, our catering outlets provide a wide range of healthy, affordable, vegan and vegetarian options. We recognise that vegan and plant-based diets can play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts associated with food production and consumption

We are also proud of our long-standing commitment to Fairtrade and continue to explore opportunities to reduce the negative environmental and social impact of the food served across campus.

Beyond our own operations, the University contributes to transforming food systems through world-leading research, innovation and partnerships that support sustainable agriculture, improve food procurement, and increase access to nutritious, ethically sourced food.

The Sustainable Garden is a vibrant, multi-functional green space located next to the Roger Stevens Building, designed for staff, students and visitors to enjoy whilst supporting biodiversity, wellbeing and sustainable food growing. The garden combines raised beds, wildflower areas, soft fruit hedgerows, medicinal plants, herbs and forest garden planting to create a thriving ecosystem and an edible community garden.

The Global Food and Environment Institute (GFEI) brings together researchers, businesses, policymakers and communities to address global challenges such as food security, climate change and sustainable food production. Through interdisciplinary research, knowledge exchange activities, public engagement and partnerships, GFEI supports the transition to healthier, fairer and more environmentally sustainable food systems, both locally and globally.

The University of Leeds Research Farm provides a real-world platform for research, teaching and innovation in sustainable agriculture. The farm supports a wide range of projects, including regenerative agriculture, climate-smart farming, biodiversity monitoring, insect farming and livestock research, helping to develop practical solutions for more sustainable and resilient food systems. It also serves as a hub for collaboration with farmers, industry partners and policymakers.