This is part of the government’s ‘Simpler Recycling’ initiative, to standardise recycling practices across all local authorities in England. It aims to make recycling easier, more consistent, and more effective.
Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy, Planning and Waste, said:
“The contract with Bio Capital is a significant step forward for Suffolk, and shows the county council’s commitment to sustainability and the renewable energy sector.
“It was important for us to find a local solution, so that once food waste is collected it doesn’t then have to make excessive journeys to be processed – we have delivered an effective and efficient answer.
“The food waste then has another life, being turned into renewable energy and nutrient-rich digestate that can be used to improve soil health. This will benefit our local farmers by helping to maintain productive, sustainable farmland right here in Suffolk.
“Homes up and down the country continue to throw away far too much food, and Suffolk is no different. This increases a local authority’s costs to deal with it, but ultimately it is money that households are throwing away.
“When household food waste collections begin next year, I hope people take notice of the amount of food they’re throwing away. Reducing this will help protect the environment and save people money as well – the average family could save over £1,000 per year.”
Jake Harrison, Chief Operating Officer at Bio Capital, said:
“Bio Capital’s partnership with Suffolk County Council will help to propel forward the regional circular economy and transform thousands of tonnes of food waste into renewable energy that will power regional homes and businesses.
“It’s great to be working with the council on such a progressive project that will help to ensure a more sustainable future for the county, while also delivering multiple benefits for everyone who lives and works there.”
Jenny Hanlon, CEO of Adnams, said:
“Adnams has a longstanding focus on sustainability and innovation, so to see this project moving forward in a partnership approach is a really exciting step.
“We’re very much celebrating the fact that our site will be redeveloped and will soon be helping homeowners on their own journey to achieving net zero.
“There are so many long-term benefits to the local economy – including job creation – and we’re pleased to have a role in positioning Suffolk as a leader in the renewable energy sector.”
Currently, food waste that is thrown away in your general rubbish bin is taken to the Energy from Waste site at Great Blakenham, near Ipswich, where energy is recovered to produce electricity.
Further information on Simpler Recycling can be found at www.suffolkrecycling.org.uk
