Posted on: Friday 11 April 2025
The council’ School Catering team has been shortlisted for a prestigious award for its work in reducing the service’s carbon footprint.
Around one third of all food produced for human consumption contributes to around eight per cent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Over the past two years, the team has been using an interactive Sustainability Road Map to set out their plans to reduce their environmental impact, with progress being updated regularly so schools and pupils can track the progress.
One initiative has been a Waste Warriors competition for primary schools to encourage pupils to monitor and reduce food waste at dinner time. Find out more about the competition.
The work the service has done to develop the map has now been shortlisted for a national award by Public Sector Catering, the leading professional body representing the school food sector.
The award nomination recognises the company or organisation that has best integrated social, economic and environmental concerns into its business. Key issues included stakeholder engagement, labour standards, food and plastic waste handling, employee and community relations, and sustainable and ethical sourcing.
The finals will be on Thursday 24 April at Hilton London Metropole.
Councillor Susan Morgan, Executive Member for Waste and Sustainability, remarked: "The School's Catering Team is setting a high standard with their commitment to reducing food waste and lowering carbon emissions.
“Their dedication is remarkable, and I wish them the best of luck – they truly deserve this recognition.”
This project contributes to the council's wellbeing objectives to respond to the climate and nature emergencies. You can read more about the council's County Plan here.
Two years ago the council’s launched a food waste recycling service for primary schools and secondary schools which use the Torfaen Catering Service. It’s just one of the ways in which the council is aiming to #RaisetheRate and increase recycling in line with the Welsh Government target of 70% recycling by 2025.
Find out more about Primary school catering.