A petition has been launched calling on a south west London council to consume plant-based food and drink.

Started by Dylan Barsby on behalf of Plant Based Councils, the petition demands that Richmond Council switch to meat-free food and drink within its offices and prioritise plant-based options in public places like leisure centres and in areas of influence such as advertising.

The petition explains: "We are pleased that London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Council has committed to be carbon neutral in its own activities by 2030 and to lead by example in the city by taking significant steps to achieve this outcome.

"Currently, however, there is no commitment to include promoting a plant-based diet to help reach this goal.

"This is surely an oversight, given that the climate and environmental impact of our food choices is becoming increasingly well known."

Using 2023 research from Oxford University, Mr Barsby argues that a fully plant-based diet produces 75% less greenhouse gas emissions, requires 75% less land, uses 54% less water and results in 66% less biodiversity loss than a diet containing 100 grams of meat daily.

"By leading the way in promoting plant-based eating, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Council would encourage residents and businesses to significantly reduce the climate and environmental impact of food choices," the petition added.

"At the same time, this would help to achieve the council's net zero goal by 2030.

"Given that the Council has already declared a climate emergency and this issue is urgent we ask the Council to respond positively to this petition, without delay."

Thus far the petition has received 57 signatures, aiming to reach 500.

A Richmond Council spokesperson said: "Richmond Council is aware of the carbon and climate benefits of switching to a plant-based diet and that this is a societal switch that could help meet climate goals.

"We have improved the sustainability of our internal meetings and events and are working to make our operations more sustainable.

"We encourage the provision of food and drink that is low carbon and are conscious and respectful of dietary preferences and needs of our staff and visitors.  

"There is very limited direct provision of catering, which means we have limited influence over the menu choices offered at schools, leisure centres, and public cafes. We are examining these as part of our sustainable procurement approach.

"Additionally, the Council does not currently have advertising sites in its direct control.

"The Council has previously taken part in campaigns such as Eat Like a Londoner, which promotes reducing food waste and switching towards more plant-based meals. 

"The Council published its Richmond Climate and Nature Strategy in July 2025, which sets out our climate goals and ambitions over the next five years and have recently launched a Responsible Procurement Strategy which outlines our approach to more sustainable procurement."

To read the petition in full click here.

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