Willoughby food businesses can now access free support as they prepare for new NSW Government Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) rules, which will require many local cafés, restaurants, supermarkets, schools and hotels to separate food waste from general waste.
Willoughby City Council and the Better Business Partnership are providing free, practical support to help businesses get their systems working well, meet their obligations and reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill.
The free support includes:
- A tailored food waste review
- Compliance assessment and action plans
- Staff training and ongoing support
- Information on grants and rebates
Separating food waste can help businesses lower waste and servicing costs, improve efficiency for staff and cleaners, reduce contamination and support local sustainability goals.
While many businesses have already introduced food waste bins, the next challenge is making sure systems are practical, low-contamination and matched to day-to-day operations.
Willoughby City Council Mayor, Tanya Taylor said the changes would help reduce food waste sent to landfill while supporting businesses to make the transition.
“Reducing the amount of food waste going to landfill is an important step towards more sustainable use of resources,” Mayor Taylor said.
“We know managing food waste can be challenging, which is why Council is offering free support to help local businesses meet their obligations and get the most out of their food waste systems.”
Businesses can use the NSW EPA online calculator to check when the rules apply to them or book a free 15-minute food waste review to get tailored advice for their site.
For more information or to book a review, visit: www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Environment/Sustainable-Living/Sustainable-business/Free-food-waste-review.
