Climate Change Data

Elon University Dining (EU Dining)

Climate Impact & Sustainability Data (2022-2023)

Reporting Period: 2022-2023

Environmental Metrics

Waste Generated:231.5 tons of organic material diverted since January 2021

ESG Focus Areas

  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Social Responsibility
  • Local Community Engagement

Environmental Achievements

  • Diverted 231.5 tons of organic material from landfill since January 2021
  • Recycled 100% of used cooking oil into biodiesel
  • Reduced emissions by 862.33 lbs through Fill It Forward program (Fall 2022)

Social Achievements

  • Donated food and beverages to local organizations (Allied Churches, Burlington Police Department, etc.)
  • Partnered with local farmers and businesses to source ingredients
  • Hosted community events and educational programs
  • Supported local Eagle Scout in building a community garden

Governance Achievements

  • Maintained a Sustainability Coordinator position since 2017
  • Registered dining halls with the Green Restaurant Association (GRA)
  • Sustainability Coordinator became a Green Restaurant Certified Employee

Climate Goals & Targets

Medium-term Goals:
  • Upgrade reusable to-go container program with digital system
  • Certify retail locations with GRA
Short-term Goals:
  • Increase local spend to 55%
  • Increase plant-based spend to 25%
  • Increase diverse spend to 10%
  • Increase third-party certified spend to 5%

Environmental Challenges

  • Reducing food waste
  • Increasing local sourcing
  • Managing single-use product waste
Mitigation Strategies
  • Implemented Leanpath food waste tracking
  • Launched “Just Try It” and “Choose to Reuse” campaigns
  • Prioritized local purchasing and responsible sourcing
  • Upgraded reusable to-go container program with digital check-in/out system

Supply Chain Management

Responsible Procurement
  • Prioritizing local and regional partners
  • Sourcing environmentally friendly and humane products
  • Partnering with organizations like 4P Foods and Piedmont Progressive Farms Cooperative

Climate-Related Risks & Opportunities

Sustainable Products & Innovation

  • House-made vegan and vegetarian options
  • Local and plant-based menu items