Sustainability Initiatives
We don’t just talk about sustainability - we take action. Check out some of the ways we're reducing our environmental impact and creating a positive impact on our community.
Working Toward Zero Waste
We proudly support the sustainability of the Earth. Here are a few active initiatives.
Robust Recycling
We recycle cardboard, metal, paper, glass, and accepted plastic products, and we recycle uncommon items—such as batteries and printer cartridges—wherever possible.
Collaborative Composting
We work with our partners to collect organic materials—including food waste and compostable service items such as napkins and wooden stir sticks—to be composted into useable, nutrient-rich soil amendments.
Proactive Prevention
We use tracking and forecasting tools to proactively identify food waste trends in order to alter our preparation accordingly.
Your Choices Can Make a Daily Impact
Our goal is to make it easy to offer you nutritious, environmentally, and socially conscious options wherever possible.
More Ways to Go Green with Temple Culinary Services
Ongoing Food Donations
Temple Culinary Services regularly donates food to Temple's Cherry Pantry, including pre-packaged items, post-production meals, and pre-production ingredients. These donations vary by season and availability, helping to ensure that nutritious food reaches students who need it most.
Learn More about the Cherry PantryToo Good to Go
Launching this fall, Temple Culinary Services is partnering with the Too Good To Go app to help reduce food waste on campus. This initiative will allow students and staff to rescue surplus meals at a discounted price, supporting both sustainability and food access. Stay tuned for more details as the program rolls out.
Learn More about Too Good to GoMeal Swipe Donation Program
Each semester, students with meal plans have the opportunity to donate one meal swipe to Temple's Cherry Pantry to support fellow Owls facing food insecurity. The Cherry Pantry then distributes them to students in need.
Learn More about the Cherry Pantry
Showcasing Our Local Partner Relationships
Temple Culinary Services partners with a diverse network of local businesses—including farmers, growers, distributors, and service providers—to support campus operations. Our vendor relationships evolve throughout the year based on seasonality, availability, and institutional needs. From fresh produce and dairy to signage, floral design, and specialty goods, we prioritize sourcing from regional partners who share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement.
Ashley Foods (Philadelphia, PA)
Based in North Philadelphia, Ashley Foods is a boutique meat and cheese purveyor serving fine restaurants and institutions. Their small-scale operation ensures personalized service, custom cuts, and consistent quality.
Blue Moon Acres (Buckingham, PA and Pennington, NJ)
This family-run, certified organic farm operates in Buckingham, PA and Pennington, NJ. Known for their microgreens, edible flowers, and specialty greens, Blue Moon Acres supplies high-end, nutrient-dense produce harvested to order, ensuring peak freshness and flavor.
Center City Pretzel Co. (Philadelphia, PA)
A staple in Philadelphia for over 40 years, Center City Pretzel Co. is the only all-natural soft pretzel bakery in the tri-state area. Their products are made with just three ingredients—flour, yeast, and water—and are kosher, nut-free, and dairy-free.
The Common Market (Philadelphia, PA)
A nonprofit regional food distributor, The Common Market connects institutions like Temple with fresh, sustainably grown food from family farms within 250 miles of Philadelphia. Their offerings include seasonal produce, dairy, meats, and pantry staples, all sourced with a focus on environmental stewardship and food safety.
Cream-O-Land Dairy (Florence, NJ)
Cream-O-Land is a third-generation, family-owned dairy processor serving the Mid-Atlantic region. They provide fresh, high-quality milk, cream, and dairy products sourced from local farms, with a focus on food safety and sustainability.
Hershey’s Ice Cream (Harrisburg, PA)
Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Harrisburg, PA, Hershey’s Ice Cream produces premium ice cream using high-quality ingredients and time-tested recipes. Their wide range of frozen treats supports institutional dining with classic flavors and consistent quality.
J. Ambrogi Foods (Thorofare, NJ)
With roots dating back to 1884, J. Ambrogi Foods is a fifth-generation, family-owned produce distributor based in Thorofare, NJ. They specialize in fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and offer a wide range of local and global products tailored to institutional needs.
La Colombe Coffee (Philadelphia, PA)
A nationally recognized coffee roaster with deep Philadelphia roots, La Colombe supplies premium coffee to Temple’s Stella’s Café at Charles Library and other locations throughout campus. Their ethically sourced beans and innovative brewing methods reflect a commitment to quality and sustainability.
Marcello Giordano Produce (Philadelphia, PA)
Operating from the historic Italian Market in Philadelphia, Giordano Garden Groceries supplies premium produce to top restaurants and institutions. Their commitment to local sourcing includes partnerships with regional farms and a focus on seasonal, high-quality fruits and vegetables.
Petals Lane (Philadelphia, PA)
This Philadelphia-based floral design studio specializes in custom arrangements for events and institutional décor. Known for their creativity and attention to detail, Petals Lane enhances campus events with vibrant, locally sourced floral displays.
Philly Pretzel Factory (Philadelphia, PA)
Located near Temple Hospital, this iconic Philadelphia brand provides hand-twisted, fresh-baked soft pretzels. Their wholesale services cater to schools and hospitals, offering a beloved local snack that’s both affordable and crowd-pleasing.
SpeedPro (Bensalem, PA)
SpeedPro Bensalem brings bold ideas to life with large-format printing solutions. From banners to vehicle wraps, their expert team helps us make a big visual impact—every time.
