ReFood is an initiative that salvages surplus food that would otherwise go to waste and distributes it to vulnerable individuals and families through a community-based, volunteer-driven approach. This dual focus on combating poverty and food waste enhances environmental sustainability and fosters social cohesion. Originally launched in urban areas, this initiative has been replicated in Madrid, Spain, and Milan, Italy, and is being considered for implementation in Brazil and Virginia, USA.

The ReFood operation relies on a network of approximately 60 centres and 7,500 volunteers who recover unused food from about 2,500 partners, including restaurants, bakeries, and supermarkets. These volunteers are responsible for the safe storage and distribution of the food, ensuring that approximately 6,800 registered beneficiaries receive nutritious, high-quality meals.

Each month, ReFood rescues about 150,000 meals from being wasted, significantly reducing the environmental impact by preventing 1,000 tons of bio-waste from reaching landfills and decreasing the emission of greenhouse gases.

Furthermore, ReFood plays a crucial role in social inclusion by delivering nutritious food to those in dire circumstances and helping alleviate poverty and hunger. The project also achieves financial sustainability through economic efficiency, charging just 10 cents per meal and relying on community contributions of time, food, and other resources.

Another significant benefit of ReFood is raising public awareness about food waste and the importance of sustainable consumption and production practices. By educating the community on the detrimental effects of food waste on both the environment and society, ReFood encourages behavioural changes and promotes a more conscientious and responsible lifestyle.

https://re-food.org

https://jra.abaae.pt/plataforma/artigo/refood-fazer-do-desperdicio-refeicao/
 

SGD 1 – No Poverty
ReFood is a project that helps poor people and those in vulnerable situations to have access to sufficient and nutritious food throughout the year.

SGD 2 – Zero Hunger
The most relevant direct social benefit of ReFood is the eradication of hunger, by guaranteeing a permanent and sustainable food distribution system.

SGD 3 -  Good health and well-being
The food distributed by ReFood is safe and nutritious, which contributes to the health and well-being of people and society

1. What is the objective of the ReFood project?
2. How many meals are saved from waste per month?
3. How many tons of biowaste are avoided per month?

EDU.IN – Associação para a Educação Integral