ODS teamed up with Cherwell Collective to support mass food distribution events during the festive season by providing free bins and waste disposal services.
The events aimed to tackle the seasonal surge in food waste by intercepting surplus food and redistributing it directly to local communities.
Councillor Nigel Chapman, cabinet member for citizen-focused services and council companies at Oxford City Council, said: “Community-led initiatives like Cherwell Collective play a vital role in tackling food waste while supporting people when they need it most.”
ODS’s support extended to events held at Barton Community Centre in Headington from December 27 to January 3, and at WISH, located at The Parade in Kidlington, from January 5 to 8.
At both locations, ODS supplied bins and managed waste disposal at no cost, ensuring safe and responsible handling of any unavoidable waste and maintaining a clean environment for volunteers and attendees.
Councillor Chapman said ODS’s involvement showcased the value of collaboration.
He said: “ODS’s support during the Christmas period is a great example of how practical collaboration can reduce environmental impact, strengthen local resilience and make sure good food doesn’t go to waste.”
The work is part of ODS’s broader social value programme, which focuses on delivering long-term positive outcomes for the community, protecting the environment, and supporting people across the Oxfordshire region.
Ben Dudley, commercial director at ODS, said: “Food waste increases dramatically over the Christmas period, with the environmental and social impacts felt long after the celebrations end.”
He said: “Supporting Cherwell Collective at Barton and Kidlington is a practical way for us to deliver on our social value commitments – reducing waste, cutting carbon and supporting local communities.”
Mr Dudley said: “Providing bins and disposal free of charge helps ensure these important events can focus on redistributing surplus food where it’s needed most.”
Food waste is a significant environmental concern, with UK households generating around 16 million tonnes of CO₂ annually from discarded food.
Reducing waste not only helps lower carbon emissions but also eases financial pressures on families.
The partnership between ODS and Cherwell Collective reflects a shared commitment to reducing waste, improving recycling, and supporting Oxfordshire’s environmental targets, particularly during periods of increased demand such as Christmas.
For further information about ODS and its work, visit the ODS website.
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