In March 2025 we reported that the council is rolling out a programme of new food waste bins in Coventry in response to new government legislation.
The council had planned to introduce the new bins in March, to comply with a Government deadline of April 2026. Unfortunately, this has been delayed.
The new service will now be starting from Monday 7 September. The scheme will help reduce waste, cut carbon emissions and turn leftover food into renewable energy and fertiliser for local farms.
The City Council has revealed that every household will receive a 23‑litre lockable outdoor food waste caddy over the summer, with deliveries starting in early June.
This caddy is designed to be kept inside or outside. It has a lockable lid which can be secured to help deter pests. Information about your collection day will be included when your caddy is delivered.
The introduction of weekly food waste collections is part of the Government’s Simpler Recycling requirements, which mean all councils must provide a separate weekly food waste service.
Residents will be able to recycle most types of food waste – including plate scrapings, peelings, tea bags and pet food – by placing them directly into their outdoor caddy. Liquids, packaging and garden waste should not be placed in the caddy.
Food waste will be collected weekly alongside the bi-weekly rubbish, recycling and garden waste collections.
Cllr Patricia Heatherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “We’re pleased to be introducing weekly food waste collections for Coventry residents. This is a positive step that will help households recycle more, reduce the amount of waste going into general bins.
“Food waste makes up a significant proportion of what ends up in Coventry’s rubbish bins. By separating it out, residents can help turn waste into something useful – from renewable energy to fertiliser for local farms. It really is recycling at its very best.
“This is a simple change that will make a real difference for our environment and for future generations in Coventry.”
Residents will be able to find out more about the new service, including what can and can’t go in the caddy and how food waste is processed, on the Council website.