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The Tafel Düsseldorf e.V. is a non-profit organization that has been committed to rescuing and fairly distributing surplus food to people in need since 1994 [2]. This makes it one of the first Tafeln in Germany and is an example of the nationwide movement that actively combats food waste and promotes social participation [2][5].
The central business model of the Tafel Düsseldorf is to collect flawless but no longer saleable food from retailers, manufacturers and bakeries and pass it on daily to low-income people and families [1][2]. The organization manages the entire food rescue process: from collecting the goods with its own refrigerated vehicles to storing them and distributing them to independent distribution points. The majority of the work is done by around 50 volunteers [1]. In addition to rescuing food, the Tafel Düsseldorf regularly provides information about its work, raises awareness of the issue of food waste and offers opportunities for voluntary engagement [2].
The mission of the Tafel Düsseldorf is clear: Save food, help people, alleviate poverty. The organization sees itself as a bridge between abundance and scarcity, thus contributing directly to a more socially just society [1][2][7]. The focus is not only on providing basic foodstuffs, but also on enabling people in need to have a varied and healthy diet [1][2]. The Tafel Düsseldorf is entirely funded by donations and receives no state subsidies, which underlines its independence and strong roots in civil society [1][4].
The organization's values include Solidarity, Charity, Sustainability and Voluntary Engagement. It promotes encounters between different social groups and stands for a responsible approach to resources and food.
The Tafel Düsseldorf makes an important contribution to Climate and Environmental Protection by preventing flawless food from being disposed of unnecessarily, thereby reducing the CO₂ footprint [4]. Every year, around a third of all food in Germany is thrown away - the Tafel's work effectively stops some of this waste [2].
The organization pursues holistic sustainability goals:
The Tafel Düsseldorf is part of a nationwide network of over 970 Tafeln, which share the goal of rescuing food and helping people in need [5][6]. Their methods and processes are constantly adapting to social developments - for example, through the digitalization of processes or changes in customer composition, as was particularly evident during the Corona pandemic [3].
To mark its 30th anniversary in 2024, the Tafel Düsseldorf has underlined its commitment with a prominent campaign, demonstrating to the outside world how valuable the work of the volunteers is [2]. As one of very few organizations in this field, it does not receive any public funding and is financed exclusively by donations from private individuals and companies [1][4].
The Tafel Düsseldorf e.V. stands for lived solidarity, sustainability and social responsibility. It proves that through practical commitment, innovative resource management and the power of the community, not only can poverty be alleviated, but also a significant contribution can be made to environmental protection. Their work makes visible how valuable every food item is - and how important it is not to leave anyone behind [1][2][4].
