IFP Proud to Support Food Waste Action Week 2026

Islington Food Partnership is proud to announce its support for Food Waste Action Week, taking place from 9–15 March 2026. As a borough-wide network of community groups, residents, businesses and organisations working towards a fairer, greener and more sustainable food system, we see tackling food waste as essential to achieving our shared goals.

Led nationally by Love Food Hate Waste, Food Waste Action Week shines a spotlight on the environmental and social impact of wasted food — and, crucially, on the practical steps we can all take to reduce it.

Why Food Waste Matters in Islington

Food waste is a major contributor to climate change. When food is thrown away, all the energy, water and resources used to produce, transport and store it are wasted too. Much of it ends up in landfill, where it generates greenhouse gases that accelerate global warming.

At the same time, many people in our borough experience food insecurity. Perfectly good food being wasted while others struggle to afford nutritious meals highlights the urgent need for systemic change — something that lies at the heart of the Islington Food Partnership’s 2023–28 strategy.

Reducing food waste helps to:

• Cut carbon emissions

• Save households money

• Make better use of precious resources

• Support a more equitable local food system

What Is Food Waste Action Week?

Food Waste Action Week is a UK-wide campaign encouraging households, communities and organisations to take simple, meaningful actions to reduce food waste. The campaign provides practical tools, tips and resources to help people plan meals, store food correctly, understand date labels and use up leftovers creatively.

It’s not about perfection — it’s about progress. Small, consistent changes across thousands of households can create significant environmental impact.

How IFP Members and Islington Residents Can Take Action

We’re calling on all IFP members, partners and residents to get involved during the week and beyond.

Here are some meaningful ways to make a difference:

1. Plan Before You Shop

Check what you already have, write a shopping list and plan meals for the week. Buying only what you need reduces the chance of food going to waste.

2. Love Your Leftovers

Get creative with surplus ingredients. Soups, stews, stir-fries and smoothies are great ways to use up vegetables, bread and fruit.

3. Understand Date Labels

“Use by” dates relate to safety, while “best before” dates relate to quality. Knowing the difference can prevent perfectly good food from being thrown away unnecessarily.

4. Store Food Properly

Simple storage changes — such as keeping certain foods in the fridge or freezer — can significantly extend their life.

5. Share and Connect

Community fridges, food redistribution initiatives and neighbourhood sharing schemes help ensure surplus food reaches people who can use it.

6. Spread the Word

Throughout the week, IFP will be sharing tips, resources and stories across our social media channels. Please like, share and repost to help amplify the message across Islington.

A Collective Commitment

Food Waste Action Week aligns strongly with the Islington Food Partnership’s mission to create a food system that works for people and planet. By reducing food waste, we reduce emissions, ease pressure on household budgets and strengthen community resilience.

We encourage everyone in our network — from community organisations and schools to local businesses and residents — to take part. Visit the Food Waste Action Week campaign page for practical guidance and resources, and follow IFP online throughout 9–15 March for local updates and inspiration.