Iceland has effectively tackled food waste by redistributing 2.5 million meals to communities in 2024.
- The collaboration with Olio began in 2022, saving over 3,228 tonnes of food from waste.
- Nearly 1,000 stores across the UK participate in this initiative, involving ‘Food Waste Heroes.’
- The program provided meals to 55,900 families, saving 4,758,729 kg of CO2.
- Iceland plans to expand its redistribution efforts to more regions.
Iceland has made significant strides in combating food waste by redistributing 2.5 million meals to local communities across the UK in 2024. This effort is part of a broader partnership with the food-sharing app Olio, aimed at repurposing surplus food efficiently.
Since joining forces with Olio in 2022, Iceland has managed to save over 3,228 tonnes of food from being wasted. The initiative operates across nearly 1,000 Iceland and The Food Warehouse stores nationwide. Local volunteers, known as ‘Food Waste Heroes,’ collect surplus food from these stores and distribute it through the Olio network.
In this year alone, the initiative has successfully provided meals for approximately 55,900 families. This effort is equivalent to preventing the emission of 4,758,729 kg of CO2, which equates to the removal of a staggering number of cars from the roads, emphasizing the environmental benefits alongside the humanitarian impact.
Richard Walker, Iceland’s executive chairman, expressed pride in reaching this significant milestone. He highlighted that the company’s philosophy, ‘Doing it Right,’ is demonstrated through their efforts, not only in reducing environmental footprints but also in ensuring surplus food reaches those in need.
Looking to extend these efforts further, Iceland has announced plans to expand their current trial of ‘lucky dip bags’ food redistribution to an additional five stores in the North West by the end of October, illustrating a forward-thinking approach in tackling food waste.
Iceland’s partnership with Olio showcases a commendable commitment to sustainability and community support through food redistribution.
