New Zealand’s first Zero Food Waste Challenge runs from 19-25 September. The week-long challenge aims to put the growing issue of food waste on the map with food rescue charities across Aotearoa coming together to give Kiwis the tools and support they need to address the problem.
“New Zealand doesn’t need a few people doing everything perfectly, we need everyone to do what they can – a million people making a small change would make a fantastic difference for our planet,” says Veronica Shale, founder of the Zero Food Waste Challenge.
Countdown’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Safety & Sustainability, Kiri Hannifin, says that as a long-time supporter of more than 25 food rescue charities around the country the supermarket jumped at the chance to sponsor the challenge.
“As one of New Zealand’s biggest food businesses, sending zero food waste to landfill is one of our most critical sustainability goals – not only for the good of the planet but also, with our food rescue partners, to directly help Kiwis who might otherwise go hungry.”
“We want to support our customers to make the most of their kai once they get it home and taking part in the Zero Waste Food Challenge will support them every step of the way with tips for storage, shopping advice and tasty recipes to use up odds and ends,” says Hannifin.
“They can also contribute directly by donating at the checkout during the week of the challenge as each Countdown store will be fundraising for its local food rescue partner.”
New Zealand’s first Zero Food Waste Challenge runs from 19-25 September and interested Kiwis can register to take part at zerofoodwastechallenge.com or make a financial contribution to their local food rescue by rounding up their purchase at the Countdown checkout and following Countdown’s lead in making real lasting changes.
