As part of Newcastle City Council’s ongoing efforts to combat climate change and boost recycling rates, a new food waste collection and recycling service was introduced for 5,200 properties in the city in this September.
The new service sees food waste collected weekly and treated at a plant in Gateshead, where it is transformed into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser.
The service currently collects 7–8 tonnes of food waste a week - the equivalent weight of seven double-decker buses. By Christmas, the service is expecting to have hit the 100 tonne mark.
Cllr Alex Hay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, Newcastle City Council said: “This is a fantastic new service for our city which aims to reduce landfill waste, create sustainable energy, and improve the cleanliness of household bins.
“We are proud of the progress made so far and remain committed to making Newcastle a greener, more sustainable city.”
Once extended citywide in April 2026, it expects to collect between 6,000 and 7,000 tonnes annually—enough to power 1,000 homes per year.
Residents who are part of the trial receive a 5-litre worktop caddy, a 23-litre outdoor bin, and caddy liners, replenished free of charge.
The program also brings cost benefits, as food waste treatment is significantly cheaper than general waste disposal. Evidence also suggests that households participating in food waste recycling tend to reduce their waste over time, saving money and contributing to a more sustainable future.