Across the world the environmental damage caused by food waste is enormous, although wastage does occur in food production, transportation and sales, it is minimal when compared to the amount wasted in our homes.

The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) advise that as a country, we waste over 6 million tonnes of food and drink annually and the most commonly wasted food items in the UK are bread, milk, fruit and potatoes.

It’s estimated that the average family throws away £1000 worth of food every year. Reducing food waste is therefore great for the environment and a bonus for your pocket.

Remaining food waste

Despite trying to reduce your food waste, you may still have some food waste to recycle. We provide a weekly separate collection service from most homes in the borough. Using this service means your food waste is removed weekly and you have less material in your black bin.

Present your food waste in your caddy every week alongside your wheelie bin. The material is collected in a separate part of the vehicle.

It is transported for treatment at an AD anaerobic digestion plant that processes and produces a gas which generates power and a liquid fertiliser used on local farms. If you need any help or advice about food waste separation, please contact us.

Tips and tricks

Know your dates

'Best before' is a quality statement, most products will last longer if they are stored correctly. 'Use before' is a safety notice. After this date, the product should not be consumed.

Write a meal planner and shopping list

Use the notes function on your mobile phone to take your shopping list with you on the go!

Check your cupboards and fridge

Check and move items with the shortest dates to the front of fridges and cupboards. If products have a very short date, adjust your meal planner and shopping list.

Don't go shopping when you're hungry

Get a routine and plan your shop, this reduces the need for 'top-up' shopping.

Check your fridge temperature

This should be set between 3 and 4 degrees Celsius.

Store food correctly

Love Food Hate Waste has great, detailed advice on proper food storage in your fridge.

Check your portion sizes

This way, you will only cook what you need.

If you do overcook

Can it be frozen and eaten at a later date? Or cooled and kept in the fridge for tomorrow's lunch?

Mark and date the produce in your freezer

Your freezer can be your best friend if you know what's in it and you plan to use it! Marking items will ensure you don't get the shock of the vegetable curry turning out to be a surprise sausage casserole!

Buy your fruit and vegetables loose

Only buy what you will eat! You will save money and throw away less.

Visit Love Food Hate Waste for storage tips, top recipes and more.