An exciting pilot in the NYC schools showed over a third of students chose soy milk when offered, resulting in a 17.4% reduction in milk-related greenhouse gas emissions even though more students chose one of the milk options overall. Measured per 100 milk servings, greenhouse gas emissions declined 30.4%. Both the dairy and soy milk provided 8 grams of protein and equivalent calcium per serving, while soy milk also provided fiber and zero saturated fat.
The pilot builds on New York City’s broader efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of school meals. A recent World Resources Institute assessment under the Coolfood Pledge found that, between 2019 and 2025, New York City reduced the carbon footprint of school meals by 59%, which amounts to 39% less per plate. In addition, these efforts reduced New York City’s food-related land use by 71% and its food-related water footprint by 40%. This progress was largely driven by expanding plant-based and plant-forward menu offerings.
Source: “NYC Schools Soy Milk Pilot Expands Student Choice While Cutting Climate Emissions” (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Sept. 25, 2026)
Learn how to reduce your environmental footprint through plant-based eating by visiting the Plant-Based Eating page on Green Newton’s website or connecting with a volunteer Plant-Based Eating Coach.