In partnership with several organizations in Cyprus and Portugal, Friends of the Earth Malta is carrying out a project called Food Connect to help address the large amounts of food waste that occurs especially in the commercial sector here in Malta. Specifically, the project is helping to bring about an app through which food can be shared between donors, individuals, and organizational receivers such as soup kitchens and food banks. The app is in development and should be released in Malta in early 2026.

To make sure the app functions as best as possible, Friends of Earth Malta have been gathering input and feedback from stakeholders from various sectors. Staff and volunteers visited restaurants around Valletta and Sliema with surveys to find out whether they have been conducting any food waste reduction measures, what might be some barriers if not, and what would be some solutions that might exist to help address the barriers. Many replied that more awareness and staff training would be necessary.

A focus group was also conducted online with input from 8 key stakeholders including government agencies, businesses, and social service NGOs that serve people in need. The focus group added some more concrete ideas as to how to facilitate efficient food pickup and exactly what information would be needed.

They also discussed the need to adhere to food safety rules and contributed ideas for features the app should include.   If you would like to learn more or contribute to this project, especially if you work in the food industry or for an organization that serves those in need, please contact resourceuse@foemalta.org.

The Food Connect Project is funded via the European Union, under the Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) programme.