FoodCloud, in collaboration with Atlantic Technological University (ATU), is excited to announce the launch of Sustainable Food Surplus Practices, an accredited course designed to empower individuals and organisations committed to sustainable practices in the food industry. This comprehensive program, offered through ATU, provides a unique opportunity to deepen knowledge and skills in food surplus management and food safety within a structured, flexible framework.

About the course

The Sustainable Food Surplus Practices course is a QQI Level 6, one-year, part-time program that offers a variety of accredited modules in food surplus distribution. This course is tailored to suit individual needs, whether participants are interested in completing specific modules or pursuing the full certification. By focusing on practical and theoretical aspects, the program equips participants with a thorough understanding of the circular economy, sustainable food systems, and legal regulations surrounding food waste.

FoodCloud Academy Grant: Supporting volunteers and staff

With the winter semester on the horizon, FoodCloud is proud to announce the FoodCloud Academy Grant. Through this grant, charity and voluntary organisation members who work with surplus food can receive funding to cover registration fees for two course modules. This initiative is part of FoodCloud Academy’s ‘Thrive Together’ project, a program funded by the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications’ Community Climate Action Programme. By removing financial barriers, the grant aims to enable more individuals to join the course and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

For more details, potential applicants can view the attached flyer for full information on grant eligibility and application instructions.

Real-Life Impact: Testimonials from course participants

Participants of the course have highlighted the program’s value in transforming their approach to food waste and community engagement.

"The ATU Certificate in Sustainable Food Surplus Practice with a focus on Food Safety & Legislation, was an invaluable experience. The course offered a comprehensive understanding of food waste, food safety, and related legal regulations, equipping me to make a meaningful impact in my community. The flexible online format allowed me to balance studies with work, and the well-organised materials made it easy to follow at my own pace. This module is ideal for anyone in the food industry—from volunteers to business owners—interested in sustainable food systems and reducing food waste. I highly recommend it.” – Laura Madden

"Through FoodCloud, we accessed a course that highlighted the serious impact of food waste and the importance of a circular economy. The program provided insights on raising public awareness and the stigma linked to food banks. We used the Clonmany community pantry as a model, demonstrating how to promote a dignified, inclusive approach to tackling food waste and fostering community solidarity. The course was clearly structured and accessible for everyone." – Dominique McDaid

Join us in Thriving Together for a sustainable future

The Sustainable Food Surplus Practices course is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to make a positive impact in the food sector and promote sustainable practices. By joining, participants contribute to a broader movement aimed at reducing food waste, promoting a circular economy and building community resilience.

Don’t miss out on this chance to join the journey toward a sustainable future. Visit FoodCloud Academy’s course and workshop page for more details and to register today. Together, let’s make a difference!