A Lacombe non-profit group that has kept hundreds of thousands of kilograms of food out of landfills has been recognized with an environmental award.
Echo Food Rescue recently won an Emerald Award for Environmental Excellence. The award was presented by the Alberta Emerald Foundation, an Edmonton-based charity that has recognized since 1992 more than 400 individuals and organizations for their contributions to the environment.
Since launching in 2022, Echo Food Rescue has diverted nearly about 227,000 kilograms (500,000 pounds) of food from the landfill. This year, the organization is expected to rescue to rescue about 163,000 kilograms (360,000 pounds), setting them up to hit over 408,000 kilograms (900,000 pounds) saved by the end of the year.
The program has also kept nearly 300 tonnes of carbon dioxide and just over two tonnes of methane emissions out of the environment.
Surplus food from local businesses is distributed through community food events, direct outreach, and partnerships with local non-profits, ensuring it reaches families, seniors, and newcomers facing food insecurity. Additionally, non-consumable food is repurposed for animal feed, supporting a circular economy that maximizes the value of rescued food.
Food is also distributed at Echo Food Rescue's Lcaombe location at 5404 56th Ave. on Thursdays from 11:30-12:30 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-2 p.m.
“We’re beyond grateful to the Alberta Emerald Foundation for this recognition,” said Echo Food Rescue manager Christina Sturgeon, who also thanked ongoing support from the community.
“This award isn’t just about Echo—it’s about our volunteers, community partners, and every single person who believes in the power of the change that can happen when a community comes together.”
At its current pace of food rescue, the organization expects to hit one million pounds (nearly 454,000 kilograms) by the summer of 2026. Plans are already being made for a community-wide celebration to mark that milestone.
“When we hit that number, we’re throwing a party and everyone’s invited,” said Sturgeon.added Christina Sturgeon with a smile. Echo Food Rescue would like to thank the Alberta Emerald Foundation for their ongoing support of environmental innovation. Most of all, we would like to thank our community for standing with us.
