Bacolod:Some 2,065 kilograms of surplus food collected at the Bacolod South (Libertad) Public Market have benefited 616 families in this highly urbanized city.

According to Philippines News Agency, the produce was rescued from vendors over 20 consolidation days, as reported by the social enterprise Sagup Negros on Wednesday. The rescued edible surplus food was distributed to families across Bacolod City through the Sagup Negros community pantry located at Quezon Avenue in Barangay 36.

Sagup Negros also reported that by rescuing more than two tons of surplus food, approximately 1,032 kg of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) emissions have been avoided. The estimated greenhouse gas emissions avoided were calculated using an assumed emission factor of 0.50 kg CO2e per kilogram of rescued food. However, the organization clarified that these figures are for estimation purposes only and do not represent verified emission reductions.

The organization is working in collaboration with the City of Bacolod through the Office of the City Administrator to continue consolidating surplus food and redirecting it to communities in need. Sagup Negros emphasized the importance of community cooperation in transforming surplus food into nourishment instead of waste.

In August, the initial collaboration led to the receipt of about 622 kg of fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and groceries from Libertad Public Market vendors, benefiting at least 40 families from three barangays. This initiative aligns with City Ordinance 1144, known as the Food Waste Reduction and Sustainable Food Practices Ordinance, which aims to bolster the city's commitment to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable food practices.