In the first year of the food and green waste service, landfill volumes have decreased by around 12% (1650 tonnes) - the equivalent of 165,000 household rubbish bins of waste. We've diverted a massive a 3,300 tonnes from landfill.
The food waste is now being transformed into compost for Victorian farmers rather than creating harmful greenhouse gases in landfill.
What if my red lid hasn't been changed?
We have almost completed the process of changing over lids on green waste bins, from red to light green, signalling the start of food and green waste collection.
If you still have a red-lidded bin then you can use our report a problem form.
Even if your lid hasn't been changed you can already start putting food waste in with your garden waste as kerbside collections are now going to the new organics facility.
What will I receive?
We'll also provide a handy caddy (mini bin) for your kitchen, compostable bags (made from corn starch) and an information pack to help you get started. Your caddy and bags may be delivered at a different time to when your lid is changed.
Where can I purchase more bags?
We've provided you with enough compostable bags to keep you going for between 9-12 months. Once you've used up your 150 bags, you can buy more from most supermarkets, hardware stores or online. Look for 7-8 litre capacity bags to fit your kitchen caddy.
We'll have a limited number of additional bags stored at Bayside City Council Corporate Centre (76 Royal Avenue, Sandringham) for you to purchase during business hours.
Please remember that the bags must be compostable, labelled with the AS 4736 logo. Biodegradable and plastic bags cannot go in the food and green waste bin as they will not break down during the composting process.
Please note: if you do not wish to use any bags to contain the food, the food can still be thrown into the bin freely without the use of the bags or newspaper.
Won't the bin smell?
Just like in your garbage bin, food waste odours will naturally increase during the warmer weather. However, there are various ways to reduce the smell.
Tips to reduce odours:
- Put food waste in a compostable bag or wrapped in newspaper. Try alternating layers of food waste and garden waste like lawn clippings or dry leaves.
- Wrap up food waste like prawn shells, seafood and uncooked meat scraps and store them in the freezer until closer to collection day.
- Store your bins in a shady, flat and well-ventilated area.
- Rinse your bins from time-to-time, and always keep the lid closed.
- Sprinkle some bicarb soda in the bin to neutralize smells.
Frequently asked questions
From how multi-unit developments will be impacted to why we've changed the lid colour, we've collated the answers to other frequently asked questions about food and green waste.
Want a food and green waste bin?
If you don't already have a food and green waste bin then you can register for the service via the link below.
Your new bin will be delivered to you for a one-off cost of $100.20.