Auckland Council Food Scraps Project

Towards Zero Waste: Navigating Auckland's Food Scraps Collection Rollout and Circular Economy Initiative

Abstract

This research project delves into the complexities of Auckland City Council's food scraps collection rollout, spanning from kerbside collection to the Anaerobic Digestion Facility in Reporoa, Rotorua; where collected food scraps are transformed into environmentally friendly fertilisers and renewable gases. The project comprises two key components: assisting in the creation of a dashboard to display weekly and monthly collection and disposal data to monitor ongoing participation rates and collected tonnage requirements are met; and assisting with the continuation of the food scraps rollout initiative in wider Auckland regions and help increase consumer knowledge and involvement. This is in conjunction of aligning with Auckland Council's aim for zero waste by 2040. The initiative aims to keep food scraps out of landfills, minimising harmful greenhouse gas emissions and return valuable nutrients to the land through biofertiliser production. This project required me to learn about Auckland's circular economy solution which emphasises prevention of food waste, supporting redistribution initiatives, and promoting home and community composting. As part of helping with the rollout and helping create an easy way for residents to separate their food scraps from general rubbish, individuals have gained a raised awareness of wastage, leading to considered meal planning and cost savings. The government's commitment to nationwide food scraps services by 2030 underscores the urgency of sustainable waste management practices which it why it was crucial for me to be familiar with the whole process and sectors within the rollout to assist Auckland Council to meet this commitment. This project has also meant that I was able to understand the whole process of the Anaerobic Digestion Facility's innovative technology which processes organic material into biogas and nutrient-liquid fertiliser, contributing to New Zealand's sustainability goals. Through comprehensive monitoring and filtration systems, the facilities uphold environmental standards while pioneering large-scale food scraps processing in the country.

Supervised by: Sarah Nicholls

Scholarship Project Funded by: Auckland City Council