Avon Fire & Rescue Service teams up with The Heart of BS13 to dispose of food waste sustainably

In anticipation of upcoming waste legislation changes in April 2025, which will require all businesses to recycle their food waste, Bedminster Fire Station has gone a step further. Following a successful trial, the station has partnered with The Heart of BS13, a community composting project, to recycle food waste in an innovative and environmentally friendly way.

Food waste accounts for a staggering 6% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and when sent to landfill, it releases methane – a potent greenhouse gas 25 times stronger than carbon dioxide. By changing the way food waste is disposed of, the Service is making a tangible impact in reducing emissions and supporting sustainability.

The trial began when Bedminster crews and the Environment Team were approached by The Heart of BS13, a community group that champions closed-loop composting. The team recently visited The Heart of BS13 at Hartcliffe City Farm to learn about the composting process. They witnessed firsthand how food waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost that replenishes the soil at the farm.

In this partnership, Jenny, the project coordinator for The Heart of BS13, collects food waste from Bedminster Fire Station weekly. The waste undergoes a natural composting process, locking carbon back into the soil and reducing the amount of greenhouse gas released into the atmosphere.

Environmental Officer for Avon Fire & Rescue Service, Beth Heaven said: “The Heart of BS13 is doing incredible work in our community, their initiatives like volunteer opportunities, education on soil health and climate change, are paramount in helping create a sustainable future.”

Louise Brogan also an Environmental Officer for Avon Fire & Rescue Service added: “This project highlights the importance of collaborative action in addressing climate change. AF&RS is proud to support local initiatives that align with its commitment to reducing emissions and building a more sustainable community.”

By implementing community composting, Bedminster Fire Station has not only reduced its food waste emissions but also demonstrated how organizations can play a vital role in reducing their environmental impact.

To learn more about The Heart of BS13 project, you can visit their website here: https://www.heartofbs13.org.uk/