Abundance Shortlisted For Top Prize

Local fruit harvesters could win ethical award

The national fruit harvesting movement, known as Abundance (of which Chiswick’s local group is Abundance London) is one of only three projects short-listed for Best Grassroots Project.

Overall there were more than 8,000 applicants for the prestigious awards, 33 have been shortlisted.

The awards, now in their fifth year, aim to celebrate those that have an innovative way of looking at ethical issues and those who create practical solutions to these problems.

The winners will be chosen on 10th June at a ceremony at the V& A Museum. The panel of judges include Chiswick's Colin Firth, Ben Fogle and Kate Humble.

Throughout the UK, spearheaded by Sheffield Abundance, groups have been harvesting seasonal gluts and redistributing the surplus to the community on a non-profit basis.

Abundance London is based in Chiswick and over the last two years (as Chiswick Local Produce) has been helping tree owners to pick and deal with their gluts. Surpluses have been sold to local restaurants, and used in jams and chutneys. All profits are re-invested into the project, or donated to charity.

Sarah Cruz, Abundance London co-ordinator, said:

''It’s brilliant news to be short-listed for such an important award. Harvesting local fruit prevents it all going to waste and saves on food miles. Our fruit tree mapping project will help involve all the local schools so we will be ready for the harvest this autumn''

This year Abundance London will be sharing a stall with the Chiswick House Kitchen Garden at the Bedford Green Days on Sunday June 13th, where the major mapping exercise for local fruit trees will be launched.

More information at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/observer-ethical-awards/observer-ethical-awards-shortlist

May 17, 2010