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02 Oct 2025
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02 Oct 2025
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A new student-led initiative at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal, in Letterkenny, is putting sustainability at the centre of campus life.
The Green Pantry, now officially recognised as a Student Society, is redistributing surplus food from local supermarkets to students while encouraging environmental responsibility and community engagement.
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The project is part of the FoodCloud framework and has already established partnerships with Lidl on Port Road and Tesco Letterkenny, with weekly donations and first refusal on surplus stock across six additional days. Collections are also underway from Lidl Ballybofey, while Aldi Letterkenny has confirmed future support once chilled storage is available.
“This initiative is about more than just food - it’s about creating a sustainable, student-powered movement that benefits the entire community,” said Kesara Wimal, Treasurer of the Green Pantry.
The society has also integrated a Return bottle and can collection system, with ATU Estates funding bin covers across campus. Deposits from returns are being divided between transport costs for food collections from FoodCloud hubs in Dublin and Galway and donations to Donegal Hospice.
Since its soft launch during the summer, the Green Pantry has redistributed 208 kilograms of food across 20 collections, delivered the equivalent of 500 meals, prevented 440 kilograms of carbon emissions, and raised more than €1,000 through charity-sponsored running shirts, supported by over 50 backers.
“We’re proud to see students leading on sustainability and social impact,” said Chairman Charles Lukas Makio. “This is a model that can grow and inspire others.”
The Green Pantry is now reaching out to students who may benefit from the service, volunteers interested in joining its committee, and independent supermarkets willing to donate surplus food. Committee positions are available in logistics, communications, finance and operations, offering practical experience and the opportunity to make a real difference.
Students or supporters wishing to get involved can contact the society at atucommunitygreenpantry@gmail.com
or on Instagram at @atu_letterkennygreenpantry.
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