Households in Tamworth and Lichfield are being sent two new food waste bins as part of a major national overhaul of collection rules, set to take effect from July 20. The changes mean that food waste will no longer be allowed in general waste bins, with residents required to separate it for weekly collection.
What Each Household Will Receive
Every household will receive a small kitchen caddy for indoor food waste collection, a larger outdoor food waste caddy for kerbside collection, and a roll of caddy liners. The outdoor caddy should be put out with normal bins for weekly pickup.
What Food Waste Can Be Included
Items that can be placed in the food waste bins include fruit and vegetable peelings, meat and fish, dairy products, bread, rice and pasta, tea bags and coffee grounds, and leftovers or plate scrapings.
Why the Change Matters
Councillor Phil Whitehouse, Lichfield District Council’s cabinet member for operational services, parks and waste, said: "Food waste no longer has to go in your normal waste bin. By collecting it separately in your food waste caddy every week, we can turn everyday food scraps into renewable energy and fertiliser rather than sending them to the energy from waste plant."
The new service is part of a national rollout that will eventually apply to all UK households, though councils are introducing the rules at different times. The aim is to reduce landfill and convert waste into useful resources.
