Guildford Expands Food Waste Recycling Program

Starting Monday, an additional 1,653 residences in Guildford, Surrey, will gain access to food waste recycling services. The borough council is extending its collection services to include flats and shared living spaces. This initiative precedes England-wide regulations scheduled for April, which will mandate weekly food waste recycling provisions from all councils. Households joining Guildford’s program are expected to receive a five-litre caddy along with a supply of liner bags. Additionally, slimline outdoor wheelie bins for food waste will be provided. George Potter, the lead councillor for environmental services, stated: “Recycling food waste is not only environmentally friendly but it’s also cost-effective.” He further explained that “It’s over three times cheaper to send food waste to an anaerobic digestion facility for recycling, than to dispose of it as rubbish.” Potter elaborated that “At these facilities, food waste is broken down to produce biogas, which is then converted into electricity.” He concluded, “The leftover material also creates a fertiliser that can be used in farming and land regeneration. A practical way to turn waste into a renewable resource.” For updates, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook and X. Story submissions can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. Please note that the BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available for review.