Tech Startup 'WeWork' Bans Meat to Save Environment

Startup company “WeWork” will no longer provide meat to staff and members in an attempt to save the environment.

According to Bloomberg, the company “told its 6,000 global staff that they will no longer be able to expense meals including meat, and that it won’t pay for any red meat, poultry or pork at WeWork events.”

In an email to employees, WeWork co-founder Miguel McKelvey claimed the move would reduce “environmental impact.

“In the past few weeks, many teams around the world have already taken action to help us become more environmentally conscious. From plastic-free events in Montreal to recycling initiatives in Hong Kong, we’re excited and humbled by how quickly our teams can make an impact,” declared McKelvey. “But we know we can do more. We have made a commitment to be a meat-free organization. Moving forward, we will not serve or pay for meat at WeWork events and want to clarify that this includes poultry and pork, as well as red meat.”

“New research indicates 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,” he continued, adding, “As a company, WeWork can save an estimated 16.7 billion gallons (63.1 billion liters) of water, 445.1 million pounds (201.9 million kg) of CO2 emissions, and over 15 million animals by 2023 by eliminating meat at our events.”

“One of our most powerful annual events is Summer Camp. Many of you have asked if we will be serving meat this year. In keeping with our commitment, we will not be serving meat at camp,” McKelvey proclaimed. “This is a significant first step — and one that will have a meaningful impact. In just the three days we are together, we estimate that we can save more than 10,000 animals.”

Staff and members will still be able to bring in meat that they’ve purchased themselves, while fish will not be covered by the ban.

WeWork, which was founded in Manhattan, New York City, rents out office spaces which “simulates startup life.”

Last year, the company received a $20 billion valuation, placing it higher than Twitter and Blue Apron.