SBN unveils ‘Food Saver Challenge to Tackle Food Waste Head-On in Philly

Up to 10 businesses can participate with the potential to become SBN’s “Food Saver Champion” and win $5,000.

Philly has a bold target to divert 90% of waste from landfills by 2035. Plus, approximately 250,000 Philadelphians lack access to nutritious food, and food takes up nearly 17% of our waste stream.

The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN), in partnership with National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), has announced the ‘Food Saver Challenge’ to tackle these issues.

Picture this: A six-month challenge where our city’s beloved food businesses, from cozy bakeries to bustling eateries, come together to make a dent in Philly’s food waste.

Participants from cafes to corner stores can embark on a journey to track their progress in minimizing, reusing, and donating food that might otherwise end up in the bin. As participants rack up points, they’ll learn a lot about their food waste habits. And here’s the cherry on top: one outstanding business will pocket a cool $5,000 and gain recognition as SBN’s “Food Saver Champion.”

 “Together, we can make a significant impact by promoting responsible food practices that not only benefit our environment but also contribute to our community’s well-being. By working closely with local food businesses, SBN is creating a collaborative platform that advances lasting and positive change in reducing food waste,” said Devi Ramkissoon, Executive Director at SBN.

Participating food businesses will receive the following perks: 

• Recognition by SBN, potential press opportunities, and other forms of city-wide recognition
• Increased visibility through inclusion in media and social media coverage
• Complimentary access to ClearCOGS software for the duration of the challenge
• Complimentary support from local food recovery organizations including Sharing Excess and Share Food Program Philly’s Rescue
• Access to use Bennett Compost or Circle Compost services
• Complimentary technical assistance services through Drexel Food Lab
• Invitation to a closing celebration event for participating businesses
• Benefits to local communities that include increasing the amount of donated food, reducing the amount of organic waste sent to landfill, and raising local awareness
• A chance to win a cash prize of $5,000 and to be recognized as SBN’s “Food Saver Champion”

How businesses can apply for the Food Saver Challenge:

Applications to participate are open now through August 31, 2023. Ten businesses will be chosen and selected by September 8, 2923.

Interested food businesses can fill out this form and get more information on SBN’s Food Saver Challenge website. Questions can be directed to Rebecca Nichols Franqui, rebecca@sbnphiladelphia.org.

Cover photo: Sharing Excess, a partner in the Food Saver Challenge, conducts food recover efforts on Essington Avenue, Philadelphia.