Gida Kurtarma Dernegi (Food Rescue Association)

iThe Food Rescue Association (Gida Kurtarma Dernegi) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) established by a passionate and idealistic group of young individuals who aspire to create a better world. Founded in 2015, the association's origins can be traced back to the announcement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

The Food Rescue Association focuses on realizing the vision of a sustainable world by addressing the crucial need for fair food distribution. Their mission revolves around rescuing surplus food and preventing food waste, considering it a primary duty in achieving sustainable living. They tackle the challenges of equitable food access, the imbalance in the production and consumption relationship, and the environmental, social, and economic impacts of food losses throughout the supply chain.

Through their efforts, the Food Rescue Association spreads awareness about food waste reduction, encouraging society and individuals to adopt a more conscious approach to food consumption. They collaborate with various stakeholders, including public institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector, to create a unified front against food waste.

The Food Rescue Association's impact is significant and far-reaching. They have provided surplus food aid to millions of people, saved thousands of tons of food and natural resources, and contributed to the global fight against hunger and poverty. Moreover, they actively align their work with the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to reduce food waste by 50% in households and commercial establishments by 2030.

Through their dedication to practical solutions, raising awareness, and advocating for legal regulations, the Food Rescue Association actively contributes to the achievement of sustainable development objectives. Their efforts directly support goals related to climate action, poverty eradication, ending hunger, and promoting responsible production and consumption.

The Food Rescue Association, known as Gida Kurtarma Dernegi in Turkish, has a rich history rooted in the vision of a group of young, dynamic, and idealistic individuals who yearned for a different world—a world characterized by fairness and sustainability. This non-governmental organization (NGO) was founded with the belief that combining intelligence and talent with heartfelt dedication could bring about meaningful change.

The inception of the Food Rescue Association can be traced back to 2015 when the United Nations first introduced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Inspired by these goals, the association sought to find a pathway towards achieving a sustainable world. They recognized that addressing the most significant requirement affecting both humanity and the planet—food—would play a pivotal role in realizing this vision. Thus, their journey intersected with the rescue of surplus food and the prevention of food waste.

Since its establishment, the Food Rescue Association has been steadfastly advancing towards its mission, making strides to realize its ideal for the society and the universe at large. Central to their focus is the concept of food. They firmly believe that achieving equitable distribution of food is the primary responsibility in realizing sustainable living.

As an organization, the Food Rescue Association tackles the challenges related to fair access to food, the imbalance between food production and consumption, and the adverse social, economic, and environmental impacts caused by food losses. They approach these issues with a firm grounding in scientific realities and advocate for change, urging society to take a stand against food waste.

The association actively promotes awareness and endeavours to instil a culture of not wasting food within communities and among individuals. By rescuing surplus food and integrating it into the value chain of life, they contribute to the overall well-being of society. This monumental task requires collaborative efforts, and the Food Rescue Association works in unity with governmental institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector, harnessing collective belief and strength.

The impact of the Food Rescue Association has been far-reaching. Their endeavours have resulted in the provision of surplus food aid to millions of people, the rescue of thousands of tons of food and natural resources, and the mobilization of support from numerous institutions and individuals in the fight against hunger and poverty, both nationally and globally.

Looking ahead, the Food Rescue Association has set its sights on the year 2030. Aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, their vision entails practical solutions to address food waste-related issues, creating awareness within society and the private sector, and advocating for legislative measures to resolve the problem. Their ultimate goal is to achieve a 50% reduction in food waste, both at home and in commercial settings, by the year 2030.

By actively contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of climate action, poverty alleviation, ending hunger, and promoting responsible production and consumption, the Food Rescue Association strives to make a tangible difference in society.

The Food Rescue Association (Gida Kurtarma Dernegi) is a non-governmental organization in Turkey dedicated to rescuing and distributing surplus food to those in need. The organization's main goals and purposes are centred around three key areas:

Reducing Food Waste: The Food Rescue Association aims to reduce food waste by rescuing surplus food from restaurants, cafes, markets, and other food businesses that would otherwise go to waste. This surplus food is then redistributed to people in need, such as the homeless, refugees, and low-income families.

Fighting Hunger: The organization's primary purpose is to fight hunger in Turkey. By rescuing and distributing surplus food, the Food Rescue Association provides a reliable source of food for those who might otherwise go without.

Promoting Sustainability: The Food Rescue Association aims to promote sustainability by reducing food waste and educating the public about the importance of responsible consumption. By rescuing and redistributing surplus food, the organization also reduces the environmental impact of wasted food, such as methane emissions from landfill sites.

The Food Rescue Association (Gida Kurtarma Dernegi) has made significant impacts since its establishment in Turkey. The organization's efforts have had positive effects on various levels, including social, environmental, and economic aspects. Some of the notable impacts of G?da Kurtarma Derne?i are:

Alleviating Hunger: The organization's primary impact is in addressing food insecurity and alleviating hunger among vulnerable populations. By rescuing surplus food that would otherwise be wasted, Gida Kurtarma Dernegi provides nutritious meals to those in need, including homeless individuals, refugees, and low-income families. This direct intervention helps combat hunger and contributes to improved well-being and nutrition for marginalized communities.

Reducing Food Waste: Gida Kurtarma Dernegi plays a crucial role in reducing food waste in Turkey. By rescuing surplus food from various sources such as restaurants, supermarkets, and food producers, the organization prevents edible food from ending up in landfills. This reduces the environmental impact of food waste, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion associated with food production.

Environmental Conservation: Through its food rescue operations, Gida Kurtarma Dernegi contributes to environmental conservation. By diverting food from landfills, the organization helps reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Additionally, by promoting responsible consumption and raising awareness about food waste, the organization encourages individuals and businesses to adopt more sustainable practices, leading to a more environmentally friendly society.

Social Empowerment and Inclusion: Gida Kurtarma Dernegi's work goes beyond providing food assistance. By engaging with communities and partnering with local organizations, the association promotes social empowerment and inclusion. It fosters a sense of community by creating opportunities for volunteerism and engagement, allowing individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of others and their communities.

Collaboration and Advocacy: The impact of Gida Kurtarma Dernegi extends beyond its direct operations. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and civil society organizations, to raise awareness about food waste and advocate for systemic changes. Through these collaborations, the association advocates for policies and initiatives that address the root causes of food waste and promote a more sustainable and equitable food system.