THE NSW Environment Protection Authority awarded the Better Business Partnership (BBP) a Business Food Waste Partnership grant, as announced by the NSW Government on 24 July 2024.

BBP is a business sustainability program offering free independent advice, funded by Ku-ring-gai, North Sydney and Willoughby City Councils.

The $198,000 grant will be used to support 300 businesses across Northern Sydney in reducing food waste sent to landfill by 40% over the next two years.

Ku-ring-gai Mayor, Sam Ngai, believes this funding would educate businesses about the importance of separating food waste from general waste, helping these businesses identify solutions.

“This has the potential to save businesses money, given that food waste is categorised as ‘wet waste’, which is heavier and therefore costs businesses more in contracted waste fees,” says Mayor Ngai. “Rotting food and organic waste creates methane gas. At landfill sites where the methane is not captured, it is 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas.”

North Sydney Mayor, Zoë Baker, says the funding will help local businesses better manage their waste, while potentially saving businesses money in the process.

“Many businesses organise their own waste collection, rather than using Council’s services. Food waste is heavier and generally costs them more in contracted waste fees, so there is potential for cost savings for businesses who take part too,” says Mayor Baker. “It’s part of our strong commitment to environmental sustainability. As a community, Council, residents and businesses all have a role to play in reducing our environmental footprint.”

With BBP’s extensive network and established relationships with hundreds of local businesses, it is well-positioned and an ideal recipient to effectively implement this grant.

For businesses interested in being involved in the program and to learn more, go to bbp.org.au/food-waste