Hampshire Residents to Recycle Food Waste from April 2026

Strategic Insights -

Hampshire residents will have the option to recycle food waste starting April 2026, as part of the county council's £50m waste overhaul plan. The initiative will involve anaerobic digestion, a process that utilizes bacteria to break down organic materials and produce renewable gas and organic fertiliser. This expansion of kerbside food waste services is expected to boost recycling rates in the county. The council has also stressed the importance of preventing food waste, citing that a quarter of household bin waste is edible.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hampshire County Council plans to recycle between 30,000 and 50,000 tonnes of food waste through anaerobic digestion.
  • The initiative aligns with the government's Simpler Recycling guidance, requiring all waste collection authorities to provide weekly kerbside food waste collections by April 2026.
  • Currently, only Eastleigh Borough Council, Rushmoor Borough Council, and Portsmouth City Council have food waste collections, with New Forest District Council phasing in the service.
  • The remaining Hampshire waste collection authorities will introduce food waste collections by April next year.
  • Councillor Kirsty North emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating it will help reduce contamination of dry waste materials and increase recycling rates.
  • Residents are encouraged to visit the council's website for tips on reducing food waste.
  • The council's £50m waste overhaul plan aims to improve recycling rates and waste management in Hampshire.

Statistics:

  • 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes of food waste will be recycled through anaerobic digestion each year.
  • A quarter of household bin waste is food that could have been consumed.
  • The initiative is part of the £50m waste overhaul plan.
  • The remaining Hampshire waste collection authorities will introduce food waste collections by April 2026.

Sources:

  • Hampshire County Council press release.
  • Craig Mackinlay, UK Government's Simpler Recycling guidance.
  • These sources are referenced as provided in the original text.