Plant-based food options become mandatory at Brampton events

Brampton has become the first city in Ontario to endorse a global movement that calls for an increase in the consumption of plant-based food.

The Plant Based Treaty has the city committing to promoting plant-based foods not only for the health benefits, but also to reduce climate change.

The treaty member cities — which include Los Angeles, Amsterdam and Edinburgh — believe a plant-based diet reduces a person’s carbon footprint by producing less carbon dioxide, uses less natural resources like water, and relies on less land for animals used for food production.

This means that Brampton will now feature plant-based food and drink options at all civic events, that events at all open spaces in the city must now include plant-based catering options, and that more public awareness campaigns of sustainable food practices will be held.

Yarim Hinojosa, Plant Based Treaty cities campaigner in Toronto, said the step taken by Brampton is a move in the right direction.

“Endorsing Plant Based Treaty is a historic win for the City of Brampton, positioning itself as a climate leader and setting an example for the rest of Canada and the world,” Hinojosa said. “Brampton’s commitment to prioritizing plant-based food and making climate-friendly food more accessible to the community, will strengthen food security and bring us closer to a Paris-aligned food system.”

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty on climate change to reduce carbon emissions.

Regional Councillor Navjit Kaur Brar said the move is a step in the right direction for Brampton.

“We have to acknowledge the importance of diverse food options to meet the dietary needs of Brampton’s residents, looking at not only personal preferences for plant-based foods and locally sourced foods, but also food sensitivities as well,” said Brar. “Considering plant-based, locally sourced and sustainable food procurement options for city events, city facilities should be a key part of our city’s climate action plan.”