Swindon residents living in flats are set to benefit from a major expansion of the town’s food waste recycling service. Following a successful two-month trial, which saw more than two tonnes of food waste collected from 500 flats, the scheme will now reach 11,000 homes across the Borough.
The pilot, launched in June, tested and tailored the service specifically for larger housing blocks after a borough-wide food waste programme was introduced for houses in 2023. Early adopters included George Selman Gardens in Park North, as well as Cleverton Court and Upavon Court on Penhill. The next phase of the rollout will focus on flats in West Swindon.
The scheme forms a key part of the Council’s mission to build a greener Swindon. Analysis in 2024 revealed that food waste accounts for over a quarter of recyclable materials in Swindon’s wheelie bins, highlighting the potential impact of the initiative.
Collected food waste is sent to Codford Biogas, where it undergoes anaerobic digestion. This process converts the waste into nutrient-rich fertiliser for surrounding farms and biogas, which is used as a green energy source.
Councillor Chris Watts, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “I’m really pleased we will be rolling out our food waste recycling service to more flats across Swindon, well ahead of the national deadline. Residents in communal properties are now playing their part in improving our recycling rates. Every tonne of waste that is recycled rather than sent to landfill saves Swindon more than £100 per tonne.”
He added: “The best way to reduce food waste is to plan meals carefully, but when there are leftovers, I urge everyone to use our food waste recycling service. It’s easy to check what can go in your caddy – simply search ‘Food Waste’ on the Council’s website and use the Waste Wizard.”
