NYU’s achievements in sustainable campus food were recognized by the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) with Gold status in the Carbon Neutrality category.

The NACUFS Sustainability Award in Carbon Neutrality is given to institutions that display outstanding leadership in implementing environmental sustainability in campus dining operations and place a high value on pursuing carbon neutrality. 

NYU’s participation in the NYC Plant-Powered Carbon Challenge (PPCC) and the Coolfood Pledge played a large role in helping the university receive the NACUFS Gold Award in Carbon Neutrality. NYU reduced its carbon emissions by 29% per calorie from its 2019 baseline, avoiding 22,000 MTCO2e in 2024, and is on its way to achieving 38% by 2030. Coupled with student engagement programming, such as the annual Plant-based Food Festival, NYU is showing how sustainability is incorporated throughout all areas of the university. 

NYU continues to strive to achieve its food-related carbon emissions commitments and highlight the importance of sustainable practices across the university. Thank you to all our partners who made this award possible!