IMPACT AT A SCALE THAT MATTERS A look at the scope of the SFI Collective Impact Strategy • 93 million pounds of food tracked annually • 23% emissions reduction achieved in just 5 years • 4 million meals served daily across participating institutions • Potential to eliminate emissions equivalent to: o 129,000 cross- country flights o 17,680 cars
removed from roads annually o Annual carbon footprint of 1,700 U.S. households
port 2024” highlights the initiative’s achievements and offers a roadmap for other institutions. By documenting strategies, sharing innovations, and analyzing outcomes, the report under- scores the replicability of this model across sectors. Long-term engagement has proven critical, with institutions participating for four to five years achieving the greatest reductions in emissions. This success demonstrates the impor- tance of commitment, structured sup- port, and systematic measurement in achieving transformative results. The SFI Collective Impact Strategy offers a blueprint for addressing glob- al sustainability challenges beyond in- stitutional dining. Its ability to leverage the collective power of diverse institu- tions, co-create adaptable processes, and deliver measurable outcomes un- derscores the potential of collective action in achieving ambitious climate goals. By reducing emissions and in - fluencing billions in purchasing power, this initiative serves as a powerful ex- ample of how collaboration can drive systemic change at a scale necessary for a sustainable future.
Central to this success is the appli- cation of the collective impact model, which emphasizes a shared vision, co- ordinated activities, continuous com- munication, and a dedicated support structure. Inspired by case studies in other fields, SFI adapted these princi - ples for the MCURC initiative, creating a process that encourages sustained participation and innovation. By col - laborating with the World Resources Institute to refine data collection and emissions calculations, the initiative ensures accuracy and accountability while adapting to the unique needs of each institution. Key to the strategy is a focus on shifting protein procurement to more sustainable sources. Institutions have reduced their use of beef, pork, poul- try, eggs, and dairy while increasing sustainable seafood, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. These changes are supported by case stud- ies showcasing how diverse insti- tutions, regardless of their starting point, can achieve impactful shifts in their menus. The recently published “MCURC Collective Impact Progress Re-
BEYOND HIGHER EDUCATION: A MODEL FOR CROSS-SECTOR CHANGE The success of the MCURC Collective Impact Initiative demonstrates the potential for institutional collaboration to drive systemic change. This model could be adapted for: • Healthcare systems collectively addressing waste reduction strategies • Municipal governments
coordinating climate action • Corporate dining services aligning sustainability goals • K-12 school districts transforming food systems
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SUSTAINABILITY OUTLOOK 2025
PHOTO: ENVATO
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