Over 30,000 tonnes of food waste recycled in Telford and Wrekin

Residents in Telford and Wrekin have recycled more than 30,000 tonnes of food waste since the free weekly food waste collection service was introduced in September 2019.

The Council has been offering weekly food waste collections for several years, placing it well ahead of the curve in many areas where food waste recycling is now being introduced.

In 2023/24, 49.2% of household waste in the borough was recycled, 5% higher than the England average. Food waste collected from homes is processed into renewable gas which helps power homes, as well as fertiliser for farming.

Households can recycle a wide range of food waste including meat, fish, bones, dairy products, fruit, vegetables, bread, leftovers and plate scrapings. Food is one of our most valuable resources. While some food waste is unavoidable, residents can use their silver caddy to ensure it is put to good use.

Carolyn Healy, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning & Sustainability, said: 

“As a Borough, we can all take simple steps to reduce the amount of food we throw away and the benefits are clear. By planning meals, storing food correctly, and making the most of leftovers, households can save money at a time when every penny counts.

“Cutting food waste also helps protect our planet by reducing the carbon emissions created when food is produced but never eaten.

“Of course, there will often be some unavoidable food waste. Lots of food waste can be composted at home but if you don’t have the space to do that then recycling is the best option. 

“Even things like meat, fish and bones that you wouldn’t include in home compost, can be put in your food waste recycling caddy and be transformed into green energy and nutrient‑rich compost that supports our environment”.

Food waste is collected weekly on the same day as normal recycling and rubbish collections. Caddies should be placed in front of other containers by 7am on collection day so crews can easily see them.

For more information, visit telford.gov.uk/recyclefood or request a free caddy.