The Government’s Resources and waste strategy for England (WRAP) has a goal to eliminate food waste to landfill by 2030. Changes in legislation mean that separate food waste collections are being rolled out across England, as outlined in the Environment Act 2021, which states that Food waste collections for households will be mandatory as of March 2026 and for businesses or non-domestic premises by March 2025.
These new rules are having a significant impact on council waste collection fleets especially as food waste collections are required to be carried out at least once a week.
It is important for councils to have the right vehicles to handle the distance of collection rounds and the volume of waste. They need to be an appropriate size and weight, and manoeuvrable around residential streets.
WRAP has put together some helpful guidance on the procurement of specialist food waste collection vehicles, containers, and communal housings, to assist with the implementation of the new rules, including a standard specification.
However, purchasing specialist food waste vehicles may require significant investment in new tools and diagnostic equipment, and workshop staff and crews will require additional training to keep the vehicles in optimum condition, ensure correct operation, and ultimately minimise any downtime.
Hiring food waste vehicles, especially during the transitionary period, gives fleet operators the chance to trial different technologies and monitor the efficiency of collections.
We are continually investing in the latest vehicle technology and in readiness for the new regulations we are currently updating our food waste collection fleet with 6 brand new 7.5t Isuzu food waste vehicles fitted with Hillend MICRO L5 bodies.
Manufactured from steel the Micro is a fully sealed, one-piece construction body with a compaction ratio of 3:1 ensuring there are no leakages. The excellent manoeuvrability of the vehicle makes it perfect solution where restricted access is an issue. The bin lift can handle all types of bins from 120litres to 1100 litres, including food waste caddies or ‘slave type’ bins. Hand loading is also possible with optional side access doors which can be opened manually.
All of our hire vehicles are ULEZ compliant (another stipulation in WRAPS standard specification) and are fully equipped with safety features, including reverse radars and warning lights, to ensure the safety of crews and the public. In addition, Live camera systems enable real-time tracking of vehicles and drivers for monitoring purposes.
Our team of knowledgeable staff are available to provide guidance and advice on the new requirements and can advise on a wide range of food waste collection technologies depending on individual council or operator’s specific requirements.
For more information or to book one of these vehicles or any of our hire fleet contact our friendly team on 01453 511 050 or email [email protected]