Starting in April 2026, changes to the law mean councils in England must collect food waste from all homes weekly.
The change is part of the government’s plan to improve recycling rates and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Around half of all residents in England already have a weekly food waste collection, but this will be new for Redcar and Cleveland.
We are currently planning how the collections will work. We will provide full information in the coming months.
For further information about the government's plans and simpler recycling please visit:
More information is also available at Gov.uk: Consistency in household and business recycling in England consultation - government response.
What is food waste?
Food waste is any waste generated through the preparation of food, or where there are leftovers after a meal. This includes:
- fruit and vegetable peelings, cores and fruit skins
- teabags and coffee grounds
- plate scrapings
- raw and cooked meat and fish, including bones and shells
- dairy products and eggshells
- bread, rice and pasta
- pet food
Why should I recycle food waste?
- Your general waste will reduce and be cleaner
- Food waste makes up a third of the average household waste bin and is now recyclable
- Less waste is sent to landfill which helps improve our environment
- Food waste that is sent to landfill doesn’t harmlessly breakdown. It has a big impact on the environment as it rots and releases methane – a harmful greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide
Will there be other changes?
Yes, from April 2026, the government is also introducing changes that require all councils to collect paper and card separately from other recyclable materials.
When will I find out more?
We will provide a lot more detail in the summer. Please keep an eye on this webpage and follow us on our social media channels for updates.