Eurodiaconia Members’ Positive Practices
Social service providers play a dual role in ensuring a green and just transition. The first aspect of their role involves mitigating climate change which includes delivering services in an environmentally sustainable manner and promoting sustainable practices within the communities they serve. Secondly, social service providers are crucial in safeguarding the social rights of vulnerable communities. Consequently, the supportive aspect of their role in a just transition is particularly significant, as it involves assisting individuals disproportionately affected by climate change and green policies.
Nature of the Role
Project Types
Organisation
Network of foodbanks to avoid waste by Kirkens Bymisjon, Norway
Kirkens Bymisjon is a key partner of Matsentralen, a network of food banks dedicated to redistributing surplus food the food industry to non-profit organisations, supporting disadvantaged people in Norway. In 2022 alone, Norwegian food banks saved more than 5508 tons of food from going to waste and redistributed it to more than 500 non-profit organisations that help people in vulnerable situations.
By redistributing surplus food to charitable organisations, the organisation contributes to food security, reduces food waste and promotes a shift towards more resource-efficient production patterns.
Prikka Food Rescue Project by Deaconess Foundation (Diakonissalaitos), Finland
The Prikka Food Rescue Project connects surplus food donors with food aid distributors. Implemented in the city of Oulu and its surrounding municipalities, this initiative significantly contributes to the reduction of food waste, thereby aiding in the mitigation of climate change.
By centralizing the collection of surpluses for food aid, the project not only enhances accessibility to food assistance but also fosters a platform for inclusive community activities. These activities are supported through diverse volunteering and employment opportunities.
Das Häferl, Diakonie Austria
Founded in 1989, the Häferl began as a facility in Vienna for those released from prison and has since evolved into a hostel for the poor and homeless, welcoming up to 400 people daily without requiring identification or registration. It serves a free, freshly cooked, 3-course meal every day, distinguishing itself from other inns by not charging guests. It provides warm meals to people in financial need using rescued food. Approximately 40,000 meals are served annually, utilizing around 20 tons of food that would otherwise go to waste. This initiative not only addresses food insecurity but also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing food
In collaboration with the Vienna Food Bank and private initiatives, its operation relies on volunteers and donations, and it offers additional services such as low-threshold social work, clothing and hygiene item distribution, and medical care. Discussion groups are also held for the families of incarcerated individuals and released prisoners.
Sveriges Stadsmissioner food centres and Restaurang Svinn, Sweden
To address food poverty, support employment, and reduce food waste, Sveriges Stadsmissioner operates food centres in multiple locations in Sweden. The centres function as a logistics and distribution centre, receiving surplus from the food industry, such as products with short shelf lives, damaged packaging, or incorrect labelling. These items, which would otherwise become food waste, are redistributed to individuals experiencing food insecurity.
By providing job training opportunities for people who are unemployed or at risk of social exclusion, participants gain valuable work experience in a warehouse environment, preparing them for the job market. Therefore, the initiative not only helps alleviate hunger but also promotes social inclusion and environmental sustainability.
Every week, Göteborgs Stadsmission rescues ten tons of food from manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. About 80 percent of this food is distributed to people experiencing poverty in the city, with nearly 500 food bags given out weekly to children, adults, and the elderly who cannot afford sufficient food.
Some of this rescued food is also sent to Restaurang Svinn, an innovative restaurant that prepares climate-smart lunches using food that would otherwise be thrown away. By transforming surplus ingredients into delicious meals, Restaurang Svinn addresses food waste while also offering job training opportunities and supporting individuals on their journey to employment or further education.
ENERGY SAVING PROJECTS – OVERVIEW
Transforming the energy sector remains a key element for environmental transition as it remains the sector with the biggest climate footprint. Notably, the energy sector was the source of more than 75% of greenhouse emissions in the EU in 2021.
Acknowledging the environmental impact of energy consumption, Eurodiaconia members demonstrate various energy-saving initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability. These projects focus on enhancing energy efficiency, utilizing renewable energy sources, and fostering innovative solutions to minimize energy consumption. By implementing these strategies, the initiatives contribute to a more sustainable future, while also addressing economic and social challenges.
Villeméjane: Pellet Boilers (FEP, France) FEP
The Villeméjane house in the Cévennes has transitioned from fuel to wood pellets for heating, with the boiler replacement partially funded by the Occitanie region. Previously, the shelter operated with two large boilers, one of which had become worn out, presenting an opportunity to adopt a more environmentally friendly solution.
The proximity of a pellet supplier and the region’s abundant wood resources provided a significant advantage through a short supply chain. Les Amis de Villeméjane have submitted a proposal to replace the second boiler under similar conditions. The organisation is deeply concerned about reducing indiscriminate energy consumption, noting that the most cost-effective energy is the energy that is not consumed.
Solar Panels at La Frat’ La Belle de Mai (FEP, France)
La Frat’ La Belle de Mai in Marseille partnered with Massilia Sun System, a citizen company for photovoltaic energy production in Marseille and its surroundings, to install photovoltaic panels. The organization was undergoing major renovations, including a complete roof overhaul and the Fraternity aimed to make an environmentally friendly choice without committing to a long-term investment.
Massilia Sun System, dedicated to combating climate change, focuses on localizing energy production and increasing the share of renewable energy in the public grid. They also raise awareness about energy issues and empower citizens to take ownership of energy production.
Since June 2023, 200 square meters of photovoltaic panels have been installed on the roof of La Frat’. The 36-kW power plant, financed, installed, and operated by Massilia Sun System in exchange for a roof lease, produces 40 MWh/year, equivalent to the average electricity consumption of about nine households. The electricity generated is sold back to the public grid. However, other installations, such as a recently equipped nursing home by the Marseille collective, benefit from self-consumption.
SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS – OVERVIEW
Eurodiaconia members have also engaged in a variety of sustainable operations that contribute to environmental and social well-being by integrating sustainability into everyday activities. These projects focus on enhancing biodiversity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting community engagement through innovative and eco-friendly practices
Restoration of peatlands by the Church of Sweden, Sweden
The Växjö diocese of the Church of Sweden is actively working to restore peatlands as a significant climate action. This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance biodiversity by rewetting suitable areas. This effort is a crucial part of the diocese’s climate work, highlighting the environmental benefits of peatlands, which include water purification, flood mitigation, and providing habitats for various species.
Moreover, the diocese is conducting an inventory to identify further church properties suitable for rewetting. This project not only supports the green transition but also emphasizes the role of church lands in promoting ecological sustainability.
Rewetting, the process of restoring water levels in degraded peatlands, is a vital strategy for peatland restoration. This technique not only halts the release of greenhouse gases but also revitalizes native flora and fauna, enhances water quality, and stabilizes the landscape against erosion. Peatlands, when drained, release significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Therefore, rewetting helps to mitigate climate change by preventing these emissions.
Sustainable activities in day-care centres by Diaconia Centre of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia
The Diaconia Centre of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia has creatively woven green activities into the daily routines of their day-care centres, enriching the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities. By engaging in nature-related tasks such as crafting with recycled materials, planting small gardens, and sorting waste, these centres are fostering both environmental sustainability and community spirit. This initiative has not only been a triumph for the environment but also a social success, as participants have expressed great joy in being part of these activities. Looking ahead, the organization plans to use handmade items to generate additional funds for future green and social projects.
