Havens food cooperative named as environmental award finalists

The cooperative is being recognized for its outstanding efforts in preventing the waste of over 1 ton of edible perishable food per week that was previously sent to landfill by 19 supermarkets on the coastal stretch of the Lewes District.

Founded by Havens Community Hub and run by Fran Lowton, Rebecca Woolven, Jane Marten, and an amazing team of over 35 volunteers, Havens Food Cooperative is currently supporting hundreds of people each week, with a particular focus on people experiencing social difficulties or food insecurity in the local community.

The environmental impact of Havens Food Cooperative's work is enormous, with the prevention of greenhouse gases (GHG) being released as just one of the many benefits of saving food from waste. When food ends up in landfill, it generates methane, a GHG 25 times more potent than CO2 and every month, the Cooperative prevents the creation of over 62,500kg of methane gas. The cooperative's efforts not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the well-being of the local community.

The Seahaven Business Awards, which celebrate the achievements of businesses in the Seahaven area, will be held on 12th May 2023 in Peacehaven. Being named as a finalist in the environmental category is a great honor and recognition of Havens Food Cooperative's efforts to create a more sustainable and equitable food system in the Lewes District.

Speaking on behalf of Havens Food Cooperative, Rebecca Woolven said: "We are thrilled to be named as a finalist in the environmental category of the Seahaven Business Awards. Our team and volunteers work tirelessly to prevent food waste and support those in need in our local community. This recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be acknowledged for our efforts."