The BRAVO Awards: Celebrating Sustainability across Brighton and Hove

by Beth Crook - April 2026

This year The Real Junk Food Project Brighton was recognised as the Sustainability Champion, scooping up a much-coveted Bravo Award.  Their powerful slogan Feed Bellies Not Bins is far more than just a catchphrase - it represents a growing movement and a core part of their mission.  They aim to inspire a more thoughtful and conscious mindset when it comes to food waste and sustainability.  By intercepting surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, they are able to support individuals and families within the community - providing nutritious meals on a pay-as-you-feel basis.  This not only tackles food insecurity but also challenges perceptions around the value of food and waste.  Beyond their direct impact, The Real Junk Food Project actively encourages members of the wider community to get involved, whether through volunteering or by adopting more sustainable habits in their own households.

As a student at the University of Brighton, which sponsors the Sustainability Champions BRAVO Award, it is especially inspiring to see initiatives like this being celebrated.  The involvement of the university highlights the importance of embedding sustainability into all areas of the Brighton community, including student life.  Encouraging students to think critically about issues such as food waste, consumption, and environmental responsibility helps to create long-term change.  It fosters a culture where individuals feel empowered to make more sustainable choices, both during their studies and beyond, contributing to a more environmentally conscious future for everyone.

The Real Junk Food Project operates across several locations in Brighton, making it highly accessible to people from all parts of the city.  Having multiple venues means that more individuals are able to benefit from what they offer; whether that’s a warm meal, a welcoming space, or simply the chance to connect with others.  This accessibility plays a key role in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels invited, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What really stood out to me, though, was the strong sense of community that these spaces create.  They are not just places to eat, but places where people can come together, sit down, and genuinely connect.  Sharing a meal becomes a social experience, allowing people to catch up, meet new faces, and feel part of something bigger.  There was such a vibrant and positive atmosphere in all of the locations, with people from all walks of life coming together in one space.  It felt like a true reflection of the Brighton community - diverse, supportive, and inclusive.

Overall, I felt really grateful to have the opportunity to experience this firsthand.  It allowed me to step outside of my usual routine and engage with people I might not otherwise meet, all within a setting that promotes kindness, sustainability, and mutual support.  It’s an experience that highlights how important community spaces like these are, not just for addressing food waste, but for bringing people together in a meaningful and uplifting way.  Brighton and Hove is progressing quickly in their mission for sustainability.  I hope that we are all similarly encouraged to do our bit for this cause.