From October, residents across Rochford will be able to recycle their food waste separately, thanks to a new collection service being introduced throughout the district. This initiative marks a significant step in the Council’s ongoing efforts to improve how we recycle our food and garden waste in a more environmentally responsible way.
The rollout of the separate weekly food and garden waste collection forms a central part of Rochford District Council’s Sustainability Plan 2024-2030. The plan aims to support residents in making environmentally conscious choices. By collecting food and garden waste separately, it will be sent to an anaerobic digestion facility where it is transformed into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser. Weekly separate food waste collections will also help keep your compostable wheelie bin cleaner and reduce any unpleasant odours.
The new service will allow residents to dispose of a wide range of food waste, including items such as fruit and vegetable peelings, cooked and raw meat and fish (including bones), dairy products, bread, pasta, rice, cakes, teabags, coffee grounds, eggshells and expired food.
Currently, food waste is mixed with garden waste, but under the new system, separating these streams will improve cost efficiency and align with best recycling practices. Residents will receive a new food waste caddy, with a grey body and yellow lid, which must be used for all food waste. A dedicated crew will collect these caddies along with your other waste collections. This initiative reflects a proactive commitment to sustainability and delivers better value for money for residents.
This rollout aligns with the Government’s Environment Act 2021, which mandates all councils to implement separate food waste collections by March 2026. Rochford’s implementation has been made possible through additional funding secured from Essex County Council.
Councillor Roger Constable, Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, said: "Introducing a separate food waste collection is something we must do to cut waste and reduce our impact on the environment. We’re pleased Essex County Council has agreed to provide £450,000 a year to support the service, especially given limited Government funding.
“This will help residents recycle food waste in a cleaner, greener way, turning scraps into something useful, like electricity. It’s an important step toward a more sustainable Rochford.
“At this week’s Environment and Climate Change Committee, members were asked to note the recommendation for a proposed start date of October 2025 for this new service, along with a high-level project plan to make it happen.”
For more details about the new service, please visit our website.