Commercial food waste collection
FAQs
Who has to seperate and recycle food waste?
From 31 March 2025 the following workplaces with more than10 full-time employees will have to seperate food waste for collection:
(Volunteers are not counted as employees)
- Businesses
- Residential homes
- Educational establishments (schools, colleges, universities)
- Hospitals or nursing homes
- Places of worship
- Charity shops selling donated goods originating from domestic properties
- Residential hostels providing accommodation only to persons with no other permanent address or who are unable to live at their permanent address
- Premises used wholly or mainly for public meetings
Why should I recycle food waste?
Seperating food waste reduces the amount of waste going into landfill.
We use a compost system for food waste. Is this still allowed?
You will be able to continue to compost your food waste. If you produce any extra food waste that you do not compost then you must arrange for this to be collected separately for recycling.
How will food waste be collected?
We use a contractor to collect food waste. They will use a specific vehicle for collecting food waste bins.
What bin do I use for food waste?
You will get a 240-litre wheelie bin for food waste. Bins should not be filled more than 3/4 full.
Can I get more than one bin?
Yes, you can pay for more than one bin.
What is the cost of a food waste bin?
A food waste bin costs £8.50 (without liner) per collection. Or, £8.78 for a bin with a liner fitted each collection.
Are bin liners available?
Yes, bin liners are available to buy. Liners cost 28p each.
How often is food waste collected?
You can chose how often you want your bin collecting when you sign up for food waste collections.
How should I put food into the bin?
Food can be tipped straight into the bin or in clear bin liners (not black).
Animals get into my bins. Can I have a lockable bin?
Yes. There is a one-time charge for a bin with a lock.
Is there a bin rinse service available?
Yes, you can pay to have your bin rinsed when it is emptied.
Will I receive a collection schedule?
Yes, you get a collection schedule for your bin.
What can I put in the food waste bin?
- Cooked and Uncooked meat
- Fruit and Vegetables
- Leftovers
- Liquids (e.g. soup and milk)
- Coffee Grounds
- Small Bones (e.g. chicken)
- Breads, cakes and pastries
- Tea Bags
- Plate Scrapings and Peelings
- Egg shells
- Rice, pasta and cereal
How does recycling food waste reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
When food waste is sent to landfills, it decomposes anaerobically, producing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Recycling food waste through anaerobic digestion creates biogas, which provides sustainable heat, electricity, and transport fuels, significantly reducing methane emissions.
What is the benefit of the by-product from anaerobic digestion?
The by-product, called digestate, is a nutrient-rich fertiliser that enriches soil and improves crop yields. It is a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilisers.