​​FareShare sowing a green future with biochar boost ​

FareShare is cultivating green solutions to food security and affordability challenges by using technology to transform waste into biochar to be used as fertiliser.

The meal relief charity received a 2024 South East Water Community Grant to purchase a biochar kiln – transforming organic waste into nutrient-rich biochar to boost vegetable yields while reducing emissions.

With FareShare’s Clayton South garden producing 85% of their homegrown vegetables, the kiln will allow the non-for-profit to further improve meal quality and better cope with rising demand.

“The cost-of-living crisis has stretched families to the limit, and the need for FareShare meals has never been greater,” Fareshare and SecondBite CEO, Daniel Moorfield said.

“Improving our limited resources allows us to increase the quantity and quality of meals we cook. This biochar kiln will help us grow even more vegetables and make our operations more sustainable – ensuring we can continue helping people in need.

The kiln is now fully installed and will be regularly used once fire restrictions ease after Summer.

FareShare provide meals to over one million Victorians every year, engaging more than 140 volunteers in the City of Kingston.”

The project aligns with South East Water’s vision to act with care and innovate with purpose and the Community Grants program’s goal to support vulnerable community members and protect the environment.

“We’re proud to support FareShare’s innovative biochar project, which will make a big difference for both the environment and people who need it the most,” South East Water General Manager Research, Innovation and Commercialisation, Daniel Sullivan said.

“By using biochar to enrich their garden beds, they’re not just growing healthier vegetables – but healthier futures for vulnerable Victorians.

The 2025 South East Water Community Grants program will open on 17 February.

 For more information visit www.southeastwater.com.au/grants.