We spoke to Duncan to find out more about what to expect from it.
I’ll look at why food waste is of environmental and social concern and why our Christian faith should inform our views about both those concerns. I’ll look at what has been done in the recent past to combat the issue.
Could you tell us about your background and how you came to be involved with the subject?
I became involved with primarily through a client I was advising. He was setting up the first Pay As You Feel café using all surplus food in Armley, Leeds in 2013. I was very interested in what he was doing and gradually became more involved with the project as it developed across the country, setting a surplus food café up in Saltaire in 2014.
Back in 2020 we worked with you on some Eco Extravaganza videos in relation to food waste. How have things changed since then in people’s response to waste, and has it been for the better?
No significant change unfortunately…
What do you hope people will take away from the talk?
A recognition of the scale of the issue but that we can all take relatively straightforward personal action. Also an appreciation of how much the issue of waste is relevant not only to the concept of environmental care for God’s creation but also of the nature of God’s provision.
What are your top three tips for reducing your food waste?
1. Shop with intention/a list
2. Be creative – don’t feel you have to stick rigidly to recipes and be confident about understanding Use By/Best Before date
3. Use your freezer!
As well as what we can do in the home, what can we do to force businesses / companies to improve their behaviour?
This is a tricky one – you can vote with your feet and shop at supermarkets (if you must!) with the least bad records on food waste. You can also join in campaigns that organsations like Tearfund and Christian Aid regularly run on this and similar issues.
Finally, you’ve been in the role of Assistant Curate for just over six months. How have you found your time at Bradford Cathedral so far?
Thoroughly enjoyable – there is a real sense of encouragement both from congregation, staff and clergy. It is a real blessing to work in such welcoming and beautiful space. I am getting used to the rhythm of what the role demands (which is different to being lead by clients and a timesheet when I was a lawyer). I’m looking forward to what the next few years might bring.
You can join us for Monday Fellowship in the de Lacy Centre on Monday 11th March 2024 at 2pm. All are welcome.