What’s up with WeWork’s new meat-free commitment

WeWork Culver City
Courtesy of WeWork

WeWork is everywhere–with over 253,000 members and 283 global locations (and growing) in every city from Shanghai to Seattle, the company has revolutionized the work-remote model, creating mobility for professionals without sacrificing any necessary amenities or a sense of community for independent workers. And thanks to a team of architects and interior designers, the sweeping spaces themselves definitely aren’t a bad alternative to stuffy office environments.

Each design-minded WeWork locale offers the basics — print and copy centers and conference rooms–along with the extras, like coffee bars, happy hours, yoga sessions, and private event spaces. Recently, the company has been ramping up efforts to be more green, launching recycling initiatives, using compostable cups in its kitchens, and ditching disposable plastic when possible.

This month, the company made another big push towards eco-consciousness, banning meat from company events and no longer reimbursing employees for meals featuring red meat, poultry or pork. Co-founder and Chief Culture Officer Miguel McKelvey emailed employees earlier this month about the switch, explaining that “avoiding meat is one of the biggest things an individual can do to reduce their personal environmental impact–even more than switching to a hybrid car.”

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McKelvey also said the swap could save 16.7 billion gallons of water, 445.1 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, and more than 15 million animals by 2023, which will help WeWork fulfill its goal to become carbon neutral by 2025.

WeWork is yet another major company to make a statement for sustainability, along Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts making changes to be more green.

Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Check out these plant-based recipes for easy Meatless Monday (or Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) dinners.

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