Why recycle your food waste?
Every year borough residents produce enough waste to more than fill the rugby stadium. Organic (food and garden) waste makes up 38% of the total, which could be recycled and composted to help maintain a clean and green environment.
Recycling food waste is as important as recycling other household rubbish like glass, cans and paper. When organic waste is put in landfill it biodegrades and has serious environmental consequences. For example;
- Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, is released into the atmosphere, which significantly contributes to global warming.
- A liquid leachate is also produced that can pollute groundwater and water courses, damaging the plants and animals that live there.
Disposing of waste via landfill is unsustainable and space is running out.
By separating your food waste and not putting it in your normal rubbish sacks, you will reduce the amount going to landfill. It will also help to stop animals tearing open your black sacks.
What happens to the food waste once it is collected?
We bulk the material for transport to BiogenGreenfinch where it is anaerobically digested (this means it is broken down without the presence of oxygen), in a sealed system. The process uses naturally occurring micro-organisms to break down the organic matter into fertiliser whilst also producing biogas. The biogas is converted into electricity and heat using a combined heat and power (CHP) engine. The biofertiliser is used on farm land to grow crops.
The process used is prescribed by law, certified by the Animal Health Agency and regularly monitored by the Environment Agency.
Why not compost all my food waste at home in my composter?
It is difficult to home compost all food waste. Uncooked vegetables are great home composting material, but cooked vegetable material and baked goods can compost slowly and inefficiently and attract vermin. It is strongly advised that you avoid putting cooked or raw meat/fish and bones in your garden composter, as they may fail to compost, generate smells and attract vermin.