Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability, local wisdom, and community empowerment by officially implementing a policy on the utilization of local food products for meetings and official events. The policy, outlined in Circular Letter No. B/4603/UN37/TU.01.01/2023, encourages every faculty and work unit at UNNES to prioritize ethical sourcing and environmentally responsible practices in food procurement.
This initiative emphasizes four main pillars. First, the use of local ingredients such as cassava, sweet potatoes, taro, corn, and other locally processed foods is strongly encouraged for all university meetings and activities. This approach not only supports sustainable food systems but also helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food sourcing.
Second, the policy promotes collaboration with local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). By prioritizing procurement from nearby vendors and local producers, UNNES contributes to strengthening the regional economy and empowering communities around the campus area.
Third, the regulation underlines the importance of menu diversity and nutritional standards. Units are advised to provide a variety of dishes that reflect the richness of local culinary traditions while ensuring they meet nutritional balance and accommodate diverse dietary preferences.
Lastly, the policy calls for sustainable and consistent implementation across all units. Each faculty and division is expected to regularly report their efforts in adopting the ethical sourcing guideline to ensure the university’s continuous alignment with its sustainability and inclusivity goals.
Through this policy, UNNES not only advances its vision as a conservation university but also aligns its operational practices with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to responsible consumption, sustainable production, and community-based economic empowerment.
By embedding ethical sourcing into daily administrative practices, UNNES reinforces its dedication to building a socially responsible, environmentally conscious, and locally engaged academic community.
