Ca Men Project

Vietnam, 2022

To reduce the amount of food waste in major urban cities of Vietnam, Cà Mèn Project establishes a mediatorial system that connects restaurants and stores that have unsold food surplus and people in need in the form of last-minute deals. This project also aims to increase public awareness about food waste prevention and tackle malnutrition within vulnerable groups in the post-COVID period by making food easily accessible for all social actors.

Cà Mèn Project Aims to Turn Vietnam’s Food Waste into a Resourceful Opportunity

In the bustling urban centers of Vietnam, where the aroma of street food mingles with the vibrant energy of city life, a quiet revolution is taking place. It’s not about the latest culinary trend or a new restaurant opening; it’s about a mission to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time—food waste. Enter the Cà Mèn Project, a groundbreaking initiative that is not only changing the way we think about surplus food but also transforming lives in the process.

The Birth of a Vision

The Cà Mèn Project was born out of a shared concern among a group of former Vietnamese students who had experienced firsthand the staggering amount of food waste in Europe. Some of them had worked in restaurants, witnessing perfectly good food being discarded at the end of the day. Others had used mobile apps to hunt for food deals, saving money while reducing waste. These experiences sparked a realization: Vietnam, too, was grappling with a food waste crisis.

Each year, over 8 million tons of food are wasted in Vietnam, resulting in a loss of 3.9 billion dollars—nearly 2% of the country’s GDP. This waste not only represents a missed opportunity to feed those in need but also contributes to environmental degradation. The Cà Mèn Project set out to change this narrative by establishing a mediatorial system that connects vendors with unsold food surplus to customers through last-minute deals.

Building Bridges and Making Impact

Since its inception in mid-May 2022, the Cà Mèn Project has made significant strides. By partnering with nearly 20 food vendors in Hanoi, including restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores, the project has facilitated the rescue of nearly 400 meals. Each meal, after discounts, is valued at approximately VND 50,000 (USD 2.1), making nutritious food accessible to a broader audience.

But the impact of the Cà Mèn Project extends beyond numbers. It’s about building a community that cares deeply about environmental protection and social responsibility. By introducing the project to groups focused on these issues, the team has fostered a network of engaged and passionate individuals who are committed to reducing food waste and supporting those in need.

Lessons Learned and Stories of Success

Running a project like Cà Mèn is not without its challenges. The team, spread across different countries and cities, has had to navigate the complexities of remote collaboration. Yet, their shared commitment to the cause has kept them united. By leveraging their diverse skills and maintaining open lines of communication, they’ve managed to keep the project running smoothly.

One of the most significant lessons learned is the importance of maintaining high standards. Working with last-minute food requires a commitment to quality and reliability. The Cà Mèn Project ensures that all vendors are verified enterprises with a good reputation, delivering quality products and trustworthy information to customers.

The project has also benefited immensely from being part of the YSEALI Seeds network. The financial aid provided by YSEALI Seeds 2022 has been crucial in implementing the project’s activities. Additionally, the support from YSEALI staff and the broader community has helped build trust with vendors and customers alike.

Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

As the Cà Mèn Project looks to the future, the team is filled with hope and determination. They envision expanding their network of vendors and reaching more urban centers across Vietnam. By continuing to build relationships with other organizations like Keep Hanoi Clean, VietHarvest, and Food Bank Vietnam, they aim to learn from others and provide support whenever possible.

The ultimate goal is to reduce economic losses for food producers and vendors while improving the environmental status in Vietnam’s urban areas. By making affordable food sources accessible to those in need, the Cà Mèn Project is not just addressing food waste—it’s fostering a culture of sustainability and community support.

A Call to Action for Youth Leaders

The story of the Cà Mèn Project is a testament to the power of youth leadership and innovation. It’s a reminder that even small teams, when driven by a shared passion, can create meaningful change. For aspiring youth leaders and future applicants, the message is clear: your ideas and actions can make a difference.

As the Cà Mèn Project continues its journey, it invites others to join in the fight against food waste. Whether you’re a vendor, a customer, or simply someone who cares about the environment, there’s a role for you in this movement. Together, we can turn the tide on food waste and create a more sustainable future for Vietnam and beyond.

In the end, the Cà Mèn Project is more than just an initiative—it’s a movement, a community, and a beacon of hope for a world where food waste is no longer a problem, but an opportunity for positive change.

Join the Movement

Are you passionate about creating a sustainable and impactful change in your community, just like the Cà Mèn Project in Vietnam? The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Seeds for the Future is looking for innovative youth-led projects that aim to tackle pressing societal issues through ingenuity and commitment. The Cà Mèn Project successfully reduced food waste by connecting surplus food vendors with customers—a simple yet powerful solution that transformed their community's approach to food sustainability. Now it's your turn to be the catalyst for change in 2025. Join the thriving network of changemakers across Southeast Asia by applying for YSEALI Seeds for the Future. Whether your project is focused on reducing food waste, increasing social equity, or driving environmental advocacy, YSEALI offers the support you need through financial aid and a robust community network. Step up and turn your vision into reality—apply now and be an integral part of a movement for a better future. For more information and application details, visit YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025.