First Town Earns Gold Status for Sustainable Food Practices

A pioneering town has become the first to achieve gold status for its sustainable food practices, setting a benchmark in eco-friendly initiatives. This recognition highlights the town’s commitment to promoting local produce, reducing food waste, and supporting ethical farming methods. By prioritizing sustainability, the town inspires others to adopt similar environmentally conscious approaches, making it a leader in the global movement toward sustainable living and responsible food systems.

A town has become the first in the country to be recognized for its commitment to food sustainability. Middlesbrough earned a prestigious gold award from Sustainable Food Places, joining just five UK locations to hold this status. The award honors efforts to reduce waste, combat food poverty, and promote healthy eating.

Laurissa Papprill, a volunteer at a community allotment, emphasized the importance of fresh produce, which often serves as the only source of healthy food for some residents. Papprill has been involved with the Regeneration of Communities allotments since before the pandemic, sharing surplus produce with community shops or directly with those in need.

Meanwhile, the Connections Community Café on Linthorpe Road offers affordable meals and operates a shop run by Middlesbrough Environment City. Much of its stock comes from surplus supermarket produce, which Alex Young from the charity says helps prevent waste. "People care more about taste than appearance," Young explained.

Collaboration between organizations is a key factor in achieving recognition from Sustainable Food Places, making Middlesbrough's gold award a testament to its strong community partnerships.

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Source: BBC‍