York University will be the site of the 10th National Fair Trade Conference in Canada, organized by Fairtrade Canada, bringing together experts, advocates, thought leaders, and social enterprises to explore the role of fair trade in addressing global challenges like climate change, inequality, and ethical consumption. This year’s conference, taking place on Feb. 14 and 15, will focus on the theme “Better Business, Brighter Future,” highlighting the importance of collaboration across sectors to create a more just and sustainable world.
York University, a recognized leader in Canada’s fair trade movement. York was recently designated a Fair Trade ‘Silver’ Campus, reflecting the commitment to sustainable practice, ethical consumption and to research and teaching about fair trade. This is in line with York’s decades long commitment to sustainability and support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), part of its University Academic Plan. As a Fair Trade Campus, York is helping to tackle several SDGs, including SDG 12 – responsible consumption and production, SDG 2 – zero hunger, SDG 1 – no poverty, and SDG 11 – sustainable cities and communities.
How Chartwells Contributes to York University's Commitment to Sustainability
Chartwells believes that sustainability should feel as good as it tastes. That’s why their programs are designed to go beyond filling plates — they fill a growing need for environmental and social responsibility on campuses across Canada. Some highlights include:
- Planet Promise and Waste Not 2.0: Tackling food waste head-on, these initiatives help reduce waste through innovative tracking systems and bring sustainably produced, Fairtrade-certified products to the table.
- Fairtrade Integration: Chartwells doesn’t just offer Fairtrade coffee, tea, chocolate, and bananas; they spark conversations about responsible consumption through targeted communication campaigns to educate students on the importance of Fairtrade and how their purchasing decisions support global sustainability and equity.
- Too Good To Go: By integrating technology like the Too Good To Go app, Chartwells is making surplus food available at reduced prices, preventing waste while offering affordable options for students.
- Menu Works: This initiative optimizes food production planning to ensure that just the right amount of food is prepared, reducing waste while maintaining quality and service for students.
One of their key educational initiatives is the annual Connecting Through Food campaign, which raises awareness about food security and sustainability while providing opportunities for students to engage through educational content, interactive activities, and donation drives. This helps students understand the systems behind food production and consumption, preparing them to make informed, sustainable choices.
In addition, programs like teaching kitchens and cooking demos provide hands-on learning experiences where students can develop essential culinary skills while understanding how to reduce food waste, select local ingredients, and prepare balanced meals.
Through their partnership with Fairtrade Canada and a deep commitment to sustainability, Chartwells Canada is proving that dining can be delicious and meaningful. They’re empowering students to make choices that matter, supporting communities near and far, and showing us all how small steps can lead to big change.
In every bite, sip, and moment shared at the table, Chartwells serves more than food — they’re serving a vision for a better world.
Click here to learn more information about Chartwells' sustainability initiatives on campuses across Canada.