More households to receive help with recycling food

We are working in partnership with three councils to increase food recycling rates.  

By the end of November 2024, 130,000 Essex households in Brentwood, Castle Point and Colchester will receive a free roll of compostable caddy liners and information leaflets about the benefits of recycling food.  

Currently, food makes up around one quarter of general rubbish collected in Essex. Food that is put in the general rubbish bin is sent to landfill. Landfill is the least environmentally friendly and most expensive waste management option. However, when food is recycled, it is transformed into green energy and fertiliser.  

As part of our Waste Strategy for Essex, we have committed to recycle, reuse or compost 65% of all waste by 2035. Recycling food that can’t be eaten is something every household can do to help us achieve this goal. For this reason, councils across Essex are keen to increase the use of food caddies among residents and to raise awareness of the food recycling services available. 

Last year, we worked with households in nine districts with wheeled general waste bins. The project achieved fantastic results within the first three months and saw an average increase of 21% of food recycled compared to the previous year. This year, we hope to achieve similar results for households who use black sacks for general rubbish. 

To order a new or replacement caddy, visit your local council’s website.  

Keep your eyes on your letterboxes and help us by recycling your food! Find out more about food recycling.