Case study:
Middlesbrough Environment City
Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC) are a local charity dedicated to promoting healthy and sustainable living their ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for our community, through sustainability and the promotion of healthy living, whilst reducing the impact on Earth’s resources. After all, there is no other home waiting for us: If we can save the planet while helping the community, we will gladly do so!
Eco-Shop Trial a Success: Supporting Students and Sustainability
Teesside University successfully piloted and Eco-Shop in partnership with the Students’ Union and Middlesbrough Environment City. The shop provided 85 students with 570kg of quality, surplus food for a small donation, effectively reducing food waste and creating an affordable food offer for students. This initiative showcases our commitment to social and environmental responsibility through collaborative efforts with our community partners. The positive response from stakeholders has led to plans for the Eco-Shop to have a weekly “pop-up” in the Students’ Union for the next academic year, further re-enforcing our dedication to student well-being and sustainable practices.
TStephen Goodall, Social Responsibility Officer at Teesside University, said: “Setting up the Eco-Shop involved a fantastic collaboration between the Students' Union, Middlesbrough Environment City, and the University.
"This project exemplifies our commitment to partnership working and provides students with access to affordable, quality food while reducing food waste.""
Femi Abolade, President (Welfare) at Teesside University Students' Union, said: "The Eco-Shop is a great example of how the Students' Union can work with the University and external partners to provide valuable services to students.
It addresses student concerns about affordability and healthy eating, all while promoting sustainability. It's a fantastic addition to our campus resources."
Lisa Harris, Eco-Shop Coordinator at Middlesbrough Environment City, added: "We're delighted to partner with Teesside University to reduce food waste and offer affordable food options to students.
"Eco-Shops were set up to prevent food waste and change the understanding of environmental issues around food waste. This partnership is a great example of how communities can work together for a greener future."
