Every year, millions of tonnes of perfectly edible food are thrown away, ending up in landfills—while at the same time, countless families struggle to put food on the table. It’s a stark and troubling contradiction, but one that is entirely solvable. FareShare, the UK’s leading food redistribution charity, is proving that with the right partnerships and systems in place, we can tackle both food waste and hunger at scale.
Turning Surplus into Support
Founded in 1994, FareShare has built a powerful network that links the food industry with the communities that need support most. Working with farmers, manufacturers, and retailers, the charity rescues surplus food that would otherwise go to waste—ranging from fresh fruit and vegetables to essential cupboard staples.
This food is then redistributed to thousands of charities and community organisations across the UK, including food banks, homeless shelters, school breakfast clubs, and community kitchens.
Each week, FareShare provides enough food to create millions of meals. But its impact extends far beyond nutrition. Shared meals can foster connection, open the door to support services, and help individuals rebuild confidence and independence.
A Climate Solution on Your Plate
Food waste isn’t just a social issue—it’s a pressing environmental crisis. When food decomposes in landfill, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas significantly more potent than carbon dioxide. By redistributing edible surplus food, FareShare helps prevent these emissions while also conserving the water, energy, and resources used to produce it.
In fact, FareShare estimates that its work prevents tens of thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year. At a time when both climate action and food insecurity are urgent priorities, this kind of circular economy approach is more important than ever.
The Power of Partnership
FareShare’s success is built on collaboration. By working closely with food producers, retailers, and logistics partners, the charity ensures that surplus food is redirected quickly and safely to where it’s needed most.
Its volunteer-led network plays a crucial role in making this happen, particularly when it comes to distributing perishable items efficiently at a local level. Beyond redistribution, FareShare also champions systemic change—advocating for policies that make it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to donate surplus food.
Their message is simple: reducing food waste isn’t just a charitable act—it’s an environmental and social necessity.
How You Can Help
FareShare thrives on collective action. There are several ways individuals and organisations can support its mission:
- Volunteer – Help in warehouses or assist with deliveries.
- Donate – Financial contributions enable FareShare to expand its reach.
- Partner as a business – Redirect surplus food to communities in need.
- Advocate – Support policies that encourage sustainable food practices.
Looking Ahead
As the UK continues to face cost-of-living pressures alongside the climate crisis, FareShare’s role has never been more vital. The charity represents what’s possible when compassion meets sustainability—a future where good food nourishes people instead of going to waste.
Fighting hunger and protecting the planet are not separate challenges. FareShare reminds us that they are deeply connected—and that together, we can build a system that cares for both people and the world we share.
