Lincolnshire's steps towards food waste recycling

Food waste recycling bins could be introduced across Lincolnshire, following a 12-month trial held in South Kesteven.

Food waste has been a large problem across the world with one third of food produced being wasted.

In 2018 food waste almost halved from the previous year. However,there was still 37,522kg of waste that accumulated.

South Kesteven District Council (SKDC) have recycled over 200 tonnes of waste which produces energy for homes and businesses, then the waste is processed into soil conditioner for farmers.

SKDC will be using a process of anaerobic digestion which will turn the waste into soil conditioner while producing bio gas to use for energy.

Video showing how food waste is processed. Video by Recycle Now.

If the scheme continues as a success it is likely the opportunity to own a food waste bin will be in force across Lincolnshire.

Food waste by OLIO

Meetings are due to take place to discuss the possibility in June once the trial has ended.

South Kesteven residents have shared their thoughts of food waste recycling and bins.

Resident David Brown, of Deeping St James, splits his modest food waste between composting and his food waste caddy.

He said: "I like the thought that my food waste is going to good use. It's very popular among my neighbours too. When it's bin day there are lots of caddies out there for collection.

"I've also found it very useful having the smaller caddy in the kitchen to pop the waste into before it's shifted outside into the bigger container."

Food waste recycling bins, small and large caddy.

A neighbour in the same village, Harriet Orridge, said: "Most of the time we have spare food, and with picky teenagers in the house there can be some leftovers. They go straight into the large caddy.

"It's been about educating them about using the caddy and not sticking the food waste straight into the normal bin."

SKDC launched the year-long food waste trial in June 2018. It is funded by Lincolnshire County Council on behalf of the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership.

Lincolnshire is taking steps to tackle food waste. However, it is not just a local issue, it is a global problem that is more than just throwing food waste away.