May Referendum

Should we have Meat Free Mondays?

Name of proposer:

Emma Simpson

Idea Title:

Meat Free Mondays

What the idea is about:

I would like to introduce the idea of 'Meat Free Mondays' to the current refectory roster. On this one day of the week, instead of offering the wide variety of meat products that refectory usually does, all food available will be completely vegetarian.

To suggest a greater variety of vegetarian dishes throughout the week.

Why have you proposed it?:

- Meat is bad for the environment: in 2006, a United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation report entitled 'Livestock's Long Shadow' highlighted the environmental impact of the meat production industry and, taking the entire commodity chain into account, estimated that livestock are responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions.

- So much meat is consumed in the refectory that the environmental impact of "Meat Free Wednesday" would be extremely positive.

- Vegetarianism as a healthier option: medical studies show that eating less meat is good for you, so the university would be promoting student health, while simultaneously giving greater voice to the vegetarian community.