COP31 Presidency Mandates 60% Meat-Free Catering and Plant-Based Cafes to Address Climate Impact of Food Systems
The 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, hosted in Antalya, Turkey, has set a goal for 60% of its catering to be meat-free. Additionally, the conference will feature two fully plant-based cafes on-site and has invited two local vegan businesses to participate in the food court. This initiative, supported by the Food & Climate Action Group, aims to highlight the connection between global food systems and climate change. The decision follows a UN-backed report indicating that most countries will not meet 2030 food systems goals, particularly regarding greenhouse gas emission reductions. Previous COP summits have shown varying commitments to plant-based options, with COP28 making two-thirds of its menu meat-free, while COP29 in Baku faced criticism for limited and mislabeled vegetarian options. COP31's focus on clearer labeling, including ingredient and nutritional information, is also part of this effort to enable informed choices for delegates.
