The new academic year is here, and it’s the perfect time to think about the little choices we make every day, especially when it comes to food. Even tiny changes can make a real difference for the planet, and for your health! Don’t worry, I’m not asking you to go full-on vegan; it’s all about little steps that add up.

1. Plant-Based Swaps
You don’t have to give up meat! Try swapping one meal a day with a plant-based option. Lentil curry, veggie stir-fry, or a chickpea salad are tasty, filling, and student friendly. Bonus: your friends might ask for the recipe and think you’re a pro in the kitchen.

Image description: a woman’s hand holding a fork over a vegetable-based roast dinner

2. Reduce Food Waste
We’ve all bought too much food and let it go to waste. Plan your meals for the week and freeze leftovers. You’ll save money, cut unnecessary emissions, and avoid any strange fridge science experiments.

Image description: six jars holding various dishes from chia seeds to rice and granola.

3. Go Local & Seasonal
Buying seasonal produce helps the environment and tastes great. CCCU has a Refillable Van (Augustine House: last Thursday, 11:30–12:30; Verena Holmes: 1–3pm) where you can grab refillable and reusable goodies. Fresh, budget-friendly, and good for the planet, win-win!

Image description: the Refillable Van that attends campus every month.

4. Mindful Snacking
Long day of lectures? It’s tempting to grab a snack from Touchdown Café or The Food Court. But all that packaging adds up. Keep nuts, seeds, or fruit in a reusable container. Easy, tasty, and better for the environment.

Image description: circular containers of nuts, fruits and chocolate snacks.

5. Make It Social
Sustainable eating doesn’t have to be lonely! Cook with flatmates, share tips with friends, or start “Meatless Mondays” in your accommodation. Doing it together makes it fun, and you might even inspire others.

Image description: three people cooking together in a dark kitchen

Small changes really add up. Why not pick one new sustainable choice a week and see where it takes you? And if you want, check out the Student Green Office campaigns, join the plant-based petition, or get involved in sustainability events on campus. Every little step helps build a greener, healthier community for all.

By Aleya Bashar, BSc Food Science and Nutrition Student