About Ätbart
Who we are
Ätbart is a non-profit and purpose-driven organisation that investigates, questions and acts on issues related to food waste, food surplus and inequality. We work systematically and science-based to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food supply — where resources are used wisely and all people are included.
We work analytically, but close to everyday life. Our work is driven by curiosity and justice, not by ideology or profit motive. We cherish dialogue and believe that change happens when more perspectives meet. Real sustainability is built from below and we actively collaborate with a national spread of grassroots organisations.
Our origin
Ätbart was founded in 2019 in Skövde with the goal of reducing food waste by redistributing unsold food. Ätbart first started Mathjälpen in Skövde, Skara, Mariestad and Götene. Mathjälpen i Skövde, Skara, Mariestad och Götene.
Matjälpen was the beginning of something bigger. The experiences from the operation showed a clear need: food banks in Sweden lacked support, coordination and a common voice. This resulted in Ätbart starting the Swedish Food Bank Network.
What we do today
Today, Ätbart runs the Swedish Food Bank Network and the projects Svinnsmart samarbete and Matsvinn på schemat. Svinnsmart samarbete investigates surplus collaborations between municipalities, civil society, stores and farms. Matsvinn på schemat is developing a digital platform with learning materials for schoolchildren.
Why do we do this?
Sharing the view that something must be done about the developments we see is easy. The threat to ecosystems is difficult to refute. However, finding the right “solution” is difficult. In a hectic time, where people are urged to act NOW, there is a high risk of commitment to simplified solutions. Unreflected food waste saving is an example of a simplified solution. Just as the growing second-hand industry does not remove the climate footprint that fast fashion entails, neither the earth nor species are saved by us saving food that is dependent on, among other things, artificial fertilizers, pesticides, fossil fuels and unequal living conditions. We are also not saving any people by facilitating the redistribution of ultra-processed products.
Through our work, we want to make visible the connection between power and food, in the area of society where it burns the most. We want to contribute to system change where people and the environment take precedence over economic profit interests.
We do not believe in simple or individual solutions, but in that knowledge, dialogue and reflection can lead to long-term changes in attitudes and deepened values - step by step, together.
Association information
Ätbart's goals and vision are the foundation of the association's work. By basing ourselves on research, solid analyses and measures with proven effects, we want to achieve real change and create concrete benefits for society.
If you want to read Ätbart's statutes, annual reports, accounts or policy documents, you can find them in our document archive. We update the archive continuously and you can always contact us if you lack any supporting information!