University of Hull Catering Team Joins Hull and East Yorkshire Sustainable Palm Oil Champions

The University of Hull's catering department has recently joined the initiative to make Hull and East Yorkshire a sustainable palm oil region. This movement, spearheaded by The Deep, aims to promote the use of sustainably sourced palm oil, and the university is fully on board with this mission.

Embracing Sustainability

In an effort to enhance their sustainability practices, the University of Hull’s catering department conducted a thorough audit of their cooking oils. They have now transitioned to using oil that contains sustainably sourced palm oil.

This is just the beginning, as the team plans to continuously review and improve their supply chain to ensure that they are supporting sustainable practices as much as possible.

Rob Stratton, the Executive Chef at the University of Hull, expressed the institution’s dedication to sustainability and social justice.

He emphasised the global impact of deforestation and climate change, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable living to prevent devastating consequences for future generations. Stratton shared his enthusiasm about joining The Deep’s campaign, expressing hope for its continued growth and success.

The Deep's Campaign

The Deep, in collaboration with Chester Zoo, AAK, and Judith Murdoch Associates, launched this campaign to encourage businesses in Hull and East Yorkshire to influence their suppliers to switch to sustainable palm oil.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to address the environmental impact of palm oil production, which, although highly efficient and cost-effective, often leads to significant harm to rainforests, river systems, and the wildlife that inhabit these ecosystems.

The Importance of Sustainable Palm Oil

Palm oil is the most widely used vegetable oil globally, supplying 35% of the world’s vegetable oil from just 10% of the land dedicated to oil crops. Its extensive use spans across various products, from food and cosmetics to cleaning agents. While its efficiency and low cost make it a popular choice, the unsustainable production of palm oil has severe environmental repercussions.

By choosing sustainably sourced palm oil, the University of Hull is helping to mitigate these negative impacts. This commitment is not only beneficial for the environment but also aligns with broader sustainability goals and the ethical responsibilities of modern institutions.

Growing Community of Champions

Katy Duke, CEO of The Deep, praised the University of Hull’s Commercial Services for their accreditation as a Sustainable Palm Oil champion. She commended their commitment to making significant changes and continuing to audit products and suppliers to ensure sustainable practices. Duke highlighted the university as a valuable addition to the expanding network of champions dedicated to promoting sustainable palm oil in the region.

The University of Hull’s involvement in this initiative exemplifies how educational institutions can lead by example in the fight against environmental degradation. Their proactive approach and dedication to sustainability are inspiring and demonstrate a tangible commitment to creating a more sustainable future.