Context: As food contributes significantly to urban carbon emissions, cities must take action to promote plant-based diets and reduce food waste to combat climate change and improve public health.
Partners: C40 Cities, New York Health + Hospitals, NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy
Duration: Initiative began in earnest in 2021; aim to reduce New York City’s food-based carbon footprint by 33 percent by 2030.
Location: New York City, USA (specifically Brooklyn for the culinary center)
Impact Achieved
Brief Description
Food accounts for 13% of cities’ carbon emissions every year. The “C40:Good Food Cities” Accelerator aims to reduce the carbon footprint of food in cities by promoting plant-based diets and reducing food waste. New York City is part of this effort through its Health + Hospitals system, which prepares 15,000 meals daily for public hospitals and nursing homes. The initiative focuses on providing culturally relevant, plant-based meals and has seen significant patient acceptance. The program is part of a larger effort, which includes 96 global mayors, to combat climate change and promote healthy, equitable communities. Key activities include developing plant-based menus, educating patients, and monitoring and adjusting meal offerings based on feedback.
Main image: NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy
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